(NDIMA/IFEX) – Tanzanian Inspector General of Police Omar Mahita said a leader who does not want to co-operate with journalists is unfit to lead. Speaking to journalists in the town of Mwanza, along Lake Victoria, on 12 September 2001, Mahita said public leaders were supposed to function in a transparent manner instead of running away […]
(NDIMA/IFEX) – Tanzanian Inspector General of Police Omar Mahita said a leader who does not want to co-operate with journalists is unfit to lead. Speaking to journalists in the town of Mwanza, along Lake Victoria, on 12 September 2001, Mahita said public leaders were supposed to function in a transparent manner instead of running away from reporters or not being truthful.
Mahita’s statement comes a few weeks after Tarime District Commissioner Pascal Mabiti ordered the arrest of over ten journalists in two separate incidents, including one which took place during Vice-President Ali Mohamed Shein’s visit to the region.
The nine journalists who were arrested during the vice-president’s visit in Mara region were released without charge, whereas another four are out on bail awaiting to be taken to court.
Mahita urged leaders who shunned the press to desist from such behaviour and work with them instead. “It is important for public leaders to provide the media with correct information about various issues. On the other hand, the latter are obliged to report correct information after making thorough investigations,” said Mahita.
He pledged that the police force would continue to provide reporters with information on various criminal occurrences and respond to their questions.
The arrests of thirteen journalists by police in Tarime District were made in connection with the clashes between two clans of the Kurya tribe, Waryenchoka and Waanchari, in which several people were killed and properties, including 467 houses and food storage facilities, were set on fire.
