We uphold freedom of press, insists Kabudi
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Prof Palamagamba Kabudi
What you need to know:
- Prof Kabudi says the country upholds a free press as enshrined in its constitution, and that it will continue to protect democracy and human rights
Dar es Salaam. The Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Prof Palamagamba Kabudi, has assured the international community that Tanzania supports and upholds freedom of the press.
Prof Kabudi said the country upholds a free press as enshrined in the constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania, and that the country will continue to protect democracy and human rights as defined in the country’s context.
The minister was speaking in Dar es Salaam yesterday when he held talks with the United Sates’ Deputy Assistant Secretary for East Africa and the Sudans, Ms Makila James.
He said Tanzania was one of the few countries in Africa—possibly in the world—where the ownership of mass media outlets was high—most of them being owned by private individuals.
“We will continue protecting this freedom but that freedom must be one that is ingrained in the values of our constitution and which protects the rights of others,’’ said Prof Kabudi.
Prof Kabudi said Tanzania was working to make democracy thrive, however, he noted—the kind of democracy that the country supports, may be different from what other countries practise.
“Although we are all Africans, there are over 50 countries which are sovereign. Tanzania’s situation and practice must be judged according to its context and not in relation to what the practice is in other countries,’’ he noted.
During talks with the US envoy Prof Kabudi reiterated the need for constructive engagement with the US in matters of trade, security and cooperation.
For her part, US diplomat James said she was satisfied with the clarifications made by Prof Kabudi on Tanzania’s stance on democracy and freedom of press.
She promised continued support and cooperation with the government of Tanzania in matters of trade, investment and security.
Ms James also met and held talks with the minister responsible for Investment (Prime Minister’s Office), Ms Angela Kairuki.
She also held talks with the minister for Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Ms Ummy Mwalimu.
