In past few days, there has been a series of
complains against the media for what is seen as the interference
of independence of Parliament, Government and Judiciary.
On 4th February, 2009 for example, the Speaker of National Assembly
warned members of Parliament to stay away from media since association
between Members of the Parliament and the media turns to violate
Parliamentary Standing Order’s provisions. He quoted section
114 of the Parliamentary Standing Order, 2007 to remind MPs from
giving information to public. He said it is against regulations
for Members of Parliament to speak out on matters that have been
discussed in the Parliamentary Standing Committee. He further
condemned MPs who are travelling with journalists to take precaution.
MISA- Tanzania is expressing disappointment since such statements
violate the freedom of expression and the right to information.
They also bring down the movement that has been established to
campaign for total enjoyment of the rights to information and
the freedom of expression.
MISA – Tanzania is appealing to Hon Speaker for the amendments
of all provisions in the Parliamentary Standing Orders that violate
the rights to information and freedom of expression. It should
be remembered that, Parliament is the only place where decisions
of public interest are discussed and made. Therefore it attracts
the community in all spheres of life, including media at large,
which is the reason why we appeal for total transparency, so
as to question accountability of our representatives. If the
access of information in the parliament is not accessible, then
the community will be left out from matters of their interest.
Distinctively, we appeal for the amendments of section 114, to
include the phrase that will provide for the right of Members
of Parliament to express private opinion freely and without interference.
In addition, the Parliament Standing Orders should provide for
the important definition of the term used since lack of enough
definitions tends to bring difficulties in translating laws and
regulations.
The amendments of the said provision will increase stake holder’s
participation in matters that concerns public interest. That
includes media which is the primary source of information. We
should respect the rights media since it is important source
of information accessed by community. We demand for the respect
of the right to information and freedom of expression. Unless
we respect the right to information and freedom of expression,
democracy will not considered to be mutual rather tyranny.
We recommend that, the Nation Assembly to have systems that will
provide enough information so that the community can access such
information easily
It is our belief that the Parliament will work on our recommendation
and improve the current situation.
Rose Haji,
National Country Director,
MISA- Tanzania
Rashweat Mukundu
Programme Specialist: Media Freedom Monitoring
MISA Regional Secretariat
21 Johann Albrecht Street
Private Bag 13386
Windhoek, Namibia
Tel: + 264 61 232 975
Fax:+264 61 248016
Mobile: 00 264 813 675 362
E mail rashweat@misa.org, misaalerts@gmail.com
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