Tanzania has suspended the publication of Mwanahalisi newspaper for six months following allegations that it breached media regulations after publishing a report about tensions within the government. The suspension, announced by the Information Services Department on Wednesday, takes immediate effect and applies to both the newspaper’s print and digital editions.
Newspaper Accused of Publishing Unverified Report
Authorities said the action followed a story published earlier in August claiming that Vice-President Emmanuel Nchimbi was resisting pressure to leave his position. The report, which relied on unnamed sources, also alleged disagreements between Nchimbi and President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Government officials accused the publication of failing to meet required standards of accuracy, balance and verification. They said the vice-president was not contacted for comment and that claims attributed to the Information Minister had not been independently verified. Authorities also pointed to an error involving a photograph of the Information Minister that was published with a caption identifying the person as Nchimbi.
Previous Warning Issued
The latest suspension follows an earlier warning issued to Mwanahalisi this year over another article questioning changes under President Hassan. The Information Services Department said the newspaper had been subjected to a more serious penalty because of the latest alleged violations. Under Tanzania’s Media Services Act, Mwanahalisi has 30 days to challenge the suspension through an appeal.
Another Newspaper Summoned
Tanzanian authorities have also summoned Jamvi la Habari newspaper to respond to questions over several recent reports that officials believe may have breached media regulations. Mwanahalisi was among four newspapers allowed to resume operations in February 2022 after previously being banned during the administration of former President John Magufuli.
Concerns Over Press Freedom
The suspension comes amid growing concerns from international observers over press freedom and political rights in Tanzania. President Samia Suluhu Hassan initially received praise after taking office in 2021 for easing some restrictions on opposition parties and the media.
However, rights groups and media watchdogs have continued to raise concerns over the country’s civic and political environment. According to Reporters Without Borders, Tanzania ranks 117th out of 180 countries in its global press freedom ranking. The six-month suspension is therefore likely to renew debate over the balance between media regulation and press freedom in Tanzania.
