Tanzania suspends newspaper after report alleging gov’t divisions

Tanzania has imposed a six-month ban on a weekly newspaper named Mwanahalisi, following allegations of media law violations, according to the information ministry. This comes after the publication of a story claiming government divisions within the country. International observers have expressed concerns over diminishing civil and political rights in Tanzania, which recently witnessed mass killings during election-related unrest.

The suspension of Mwanahalisi, a paper known for its critical stance towards the government, is immediate and applies to both its print and online versions. The Information Services Department in Tanzania announced the decision, citing the newspaper's breach of media laws. The ban covers both print and digital editions of the publication, announced in a Swahili statement.

The government's action followed the release of an article earlier this month alleging that Tanzania's vice-president, Emmanuel Nchimbi, was resistant to stepping down from his position despite pressure from the ruling party. The newspaper reported this based on anonymous sources, alleging that Nchimbi disagreed with President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Authorities stated that the report lacked balance and verification, noting that Nchimbi had not been interviewed and claims made about the information minister were not independently confirmed. The Director of Information Services deemed the newspaper's reporting less severe than previous penalties, according to the statement. Earlier this year, Mwanahalisi was warned following the publication of a story loosely translated as "When will the 2021 Samia meet the 2026 Samia?"

Samia Suluhu Hassan, who succeeded John Magufuli as president in March 2021, was initially seen as a reformer who eased restrictions on the opposition and media. Tanzania's Media Services Act gives the newspaper 30 days to appeal the decision. The government also summoned another newspaper, Jamvi la Habari, to explain recent stories potentially violating regulations.

Mwanahalisi was among four newspapers allowed to resume publishing in February 2022 after being banned under Magufuli. According to media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Tanzania ranks 117th out of 180 countries in press freedom.