Joseph Isangura
The Government of Tanzania has appealed for fair, accurate and responsible reporting from international media outlets as investigations continue into the events of October 29, 2025.
Government Spokesperson and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Gerson Msigwa, said the number of people who died during the unrest is still being verified by the Independent Commission of Inquiry, which is assessing the full scope of the incident.
Speaking on November 23, 2025, at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre in Dar es Salaam, Msigwa urged families searching for missing relatives to report to the nearest police stations so that authorities can properly document all cases. He emphasized that the nation must wait for the commission’s final report, which will provide a complete account of the events and their impact.
Msigwa also addressed claims made in a recent article published by CNN, where the author suggested that government officials were unreachable. He refuted that claim, saying the government has remained accessible and cooperative with journalists who follow professional standards. According to him, it is misleading to suggest that the government failed to provide information.
He took a moment to acknowledge Tanzanian journalists, praising them for their professionalism, calmness and commitment to national interest during a challenging period. Msigwa said local reporters have continued to prioritize accuracy despite facing criticism from some international platforms.
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However, Msigwa expressed concern over what he described as a growing trend of one-sided narratives appearing in foreign media. He warned that such reporting risks creating unnecessary divisions among citizens and undermining national unity. He reminded global media outlets that credible reporting must adhere to journalism ethics, including fairness, accuracy and accountability.
He also stressed that the government, including President Samia Suluhu Hassan, was deeply affected by the October events and remains committed to ensuring a transparent investigation. Msigwa noted that sensationalising the tragedy does not support healing for the affected families and only deepens existing wounds.
Msigwa concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting press freedom within Tanzania. At the same time, he urged global media outlets to uphold responsible journalism as the country awaits the findings of the independent commission. He said the focus should remain on truth, unity and national stability as the nation works toward healing.
