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As the country moves closer to the 2025 General Election, the government is calling on media professionals to play a key role in ensuring a peaceful, fair, and well-informed electoral process.
Speaking in Dar es Salaam during a meeting with editors and journalists from various media houses, Chief Government Spokesperson and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, Gerson Msigwa, stressed the importance of responsible journalism in shaping the future of the nation.
“The media has a duty to contribute to building a better Tanzania. Every country hopes for elections that promote peace and stability, and as we head toward 2025, we all share the responsibility of making that happen,” said Msigwa.
He emphasized that media outlets should focus on providing accurate and balanced coverage of the elections, ensuring that voters have access to reliable information. According to Msigwa, misinformation and biased reporting can create unnecessary tension, and journalists must be mindful of the impact their stories have on the public.
“It’s crucial for media professionals to exercise fairness in their reporting and to encourage constructive public participation in the electoral process,” he added. “The role of the press is to inform, educate, and guide not to mislead or create fear.”
Msigwa also highlighted the significance of journalistic ethics and professionalism, urging reporters to verify facts before publishing, especially in an era where social media allows information—whether true or false—to spread rapidly.
“With digital platforms becoming the main source of news for many people, journalists must be extra cautious about the information they share. The credibility of our electoral process depends on accurate and responsible reporting,” he explained.
To support the media in achieving these goals, Msigwa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing access to information, offering training, and creating an environment where journalists can carry out their duties effectively.
“We are ready to work hand in hand with media professionals, ensuring they have the resources they need to cover the elections responsibly,” he said. “A well-informed society is key to a smooth and credible election process.”
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This appeal to the media is part of a broader initiative to strengthen democracy and uphold transparency. Authorities believe that when the media is used as a tool for empowerment rather than division, it helps foster a culture of accountability and informed decision-making among citizens.
“As journalists, you have the power to shape the national conversation,” Msigwa concluded. “Let’s use that power to promote unity, peace, and progress as we head toward this important moment in our democracy.”
With the 2025 elections approaching, media houses are encouraged to collaborate, uphold the highest standards of journalism, and play their role in ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process.
