Zanzibar police chief advises politicians to avoid incitement

Unguja. Zanzibar Police Commissioner Hamad Khamis Hamad has called upon on political parties to avoid using their platforms to undermine respect, promote hatred, or incite violence.

The Commissioner made this statement on August 19, 2024, while addressing journalists at his office in Ziwani, Unguja.

He emphasised that freedom of expression should not be used to justify inciting hatred or violence, stressing that this freedom does not extend to invading personal privacy.

“Freedom of speech is a crucial right for promoting democracy, but it must be exercised responsibly, with a commitment to maintaining peace, stability, and the rule of law,” said Commissioner Hamad.

He affirmed that the Police Force respects political leaders’ right to criticise the government and advocate for reforms through legal and proper channels.

However, he clarified that freedom of speech does not include attacking the privacy of political opponents or anyone else, nor does it cover the use of hateful language, derogatory comments, public shaming, spreading false information, or inciting people against legitimate government authority and its institutions.

“We have observed some party leaders endorsing acts of violence by encouraging their followers to take the law into their own hands.

Such actions are not only illegal but also detrimental to societal cohesion,” Commissioner Hamad noted.

He has directed police commanders on the island to enforce laws against inflammatory speech that could lead to violence and to address attempts to pursue reforms through improper means.

The Commissioner also urged citizens to avoid initiating violence and to critically evaluate the statements.