IFEX - News from the international freedom of expression community
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ALERT - TANZANIA

30 January 2003

Photojournalist assaulted

SOURCE: Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA), Windhoek

(MISA/IFEX) - On 25 January 2003, photojournalist Hamis Hamad, who works for
the daily "Uhuru" and weekly "Mzalendo" newspapers in Dar es Salaam, was
reportedly assaulted by Kinondoni Municipal Council askaris (security
guards).

Hamad suffered minor injuries when he was beaten up while on assignment at
Ubungo Bus Terminal in Dar es Salaam. The security guards assaulted him
despite the fact he clearly identified himself with his press card as a
journalist on duty. No motive for the incident has been established.

The Press Photographers' Association of Tanzania (PPAT) condemned the
action, calling it "uncalled for" and "unacceptable." The PPAT also asked
the Kinondoni Municipal Council authorities to investigate the incident and
punish all those who were involved, to indicate that such behaviour is not
endorsed by the Council.

MISA-Tanzania strongly condemns this appalling violation of press freedom
and calls on all supporters of media freedom and the right to information to
condemn this action.

For further information, contact Zoe Titus or Kaitira Kandjii, Regional
Information Coordinator, MISA, Street Address: 21 Johann Albrecht Street,
Mailing Address; Private Bag 13386 Windhoek, Namibia, tel: +264 61 232975,
fax: +264 61 248016, e-mail: [email protected] or [email protected],
Internet: http://www.misa.org/

The information contained in this alert is the sole responsibility of MISA.
In citing this material for broadcast or publication, please credit MISA.
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