Media Wire Express Correspondent
The Tanzania Editors Forum (TEF) has strongly condemned the recent assault on Dickson Ng’hily, a prominent business editor and digital department head at ‘The Guardian’ newspaper.
Ng’hily was detained for nearly six hours after being assaulted while documenting pupils studying under tree shade at Kwembe Primary School in Ubungo District, Dar es Salaam.
TEF Chairman Deodatus Balile, in a statement issued on Thursday, described the incident as an intolerable crime and sabotage, undermining President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s efforts to restore and promote media freedom in the country. He assured that TEF would support Ng’hily in seeking justice, including covering all losses incurred during the incident.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from various media and human rights organizations, calling for swift action against the perpetrators. The Ministry of Information, Communication, and Technology, represented by Minister Nape Nnauye, reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding freedom of speech and ensuring a conducive working environment for journalists.
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Minister Nnauye emphasized that the government’s intention is not to interfere with media operations but to promote free expression and uphold the rule of law.
As the investigation continues, the media community remains vigilant, advocating for stronger protections for journalists and more stringent measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The assault on Ng’hily highlights the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in Tanzania, despite recent efforts to improve media freedoms through legislative amendments. TEF and other stakeholders are calling for a thorough and transparent investigation to hold those responsible accountable and prevent recurrence of such attacks.
The incident underscores the need for continued vigilance and advocacy to protect journalists and uphold the principles of press freedom in Tanzania.
This incident, involving a journalist performing his duty, serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding media freedoms and the ongoing efforts required to ensure a safe and supportive environment for journalists to operate without fear of violence or intimidation.
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