Journalists have called upon the government to repeal all laws that suppress freedom of expression.
The call was made last week when discussingthe challenges they face in fulfilling their responsibilities and how the community can freely benefit access freedom of expression.
Director of the Tanzania Media Women Association (TAMWA-Zanzibar), Dr. Mzuri Issa Alisaid they welcome the government move to enact new Media Service Act (MSA), but they are concerned with the possible implications that this decision might have on the broader enjoyment of the freedom of expression enshrined in the 1984 constitution of Zanzibar.
She said section 18 of the constitution states that freedom of expression shall be respected, so there is a need for actors to uphold that right to expand democracy.
She applauded Dr. Mwinyi administration for its commitment to repeal all outdated laws including the Newspapers, Books and News Agency Act of 1988 which hinders press freedom.
Some journalists urged the administration to demonstrate this commitment by repealing all laws that stifle the rights to freedom of expression and press freedom.
They commended efforts that have been made by media stakeholders to advocate for reform on media laws.
“We do believe that media stakeholders shall not be tired to demand our freedom and the government must deliberately allow us to do our work independently,” they said.
