Tanzania Police Pledge Robust Protection for Journalists During Critical Election Period
Dar es Salaam – The Tanzania Police Force has committed to ensuring comprehensive safety and security for citizens, with a special focus on protecting journalists during the ongoing election period.
Recent statistics reveal a concerning trend of press freedom violations, with 28 incidents affecting 26 journalists across 12 regions between 2024 and 2025. These violations range from information access denial to life threats and arbitrary arrests.
Inspector General of Police Camillus Wambura emphasized the critical importance of journalist safety, stating, “The safety of journalists is essential for democracy and the integrity of the electoral process. We urge media practitioners to adhere to legal procedures and ethical standards.”
The police leadership has called on media organizations to enhance staff protection by providing professional safety training and essential protective gear, particularly for journalists covering high-risk political assignments.
Key highlights from the national dialogue include:
– Commitment to maintaining peace throughout the election process
– Urgent need for collaborative safety mechanisms
– Focus on protecting media workers’ rights and security
The event brought together editors, journalists, security officials, and civil society representatives to develop comprehensive strategies for safe and free reporting during this sensitive period.
Police Force representatives assured the public of their preparedness, with officers receiving specialized training in public engagement and rights protection.
As Tanzania approaches a critical electoral phase, the ongoing dialogue underscores the importance of protecting press freedom and ensuring transparent, safe reporting.
