Regulator clears air on pre-poll broadcasts

THE Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) clarified on Monday that it had not banned live broadcasts on electronic media by people who are not contestants ahead of the general election.

However, the industry’s watchdog reminded radio and television stations to adhere to Broadcasting Services (Content) (Broadcasting of Multi-party Election), Regulations of 2015 when airing live programmes.

In an advert placed in the media, TCRA explained that the regulations have been provided for to guide coverage of campaigns by electronic media to ensure peace and harmony ahead of the polls.

The advert by TCRA seeks to clarify a statement issued by the regulator on September 11 which has been interpreted by some quarters in the public, as a ban on live coverage for people who are not vying for any positions in the forthcoming election.

“Service providers should ensure that they do not air divisive or insulting programmes and they should as well make sure broadcast must focus on issues of national interests rather than events at campaign rallies,” read part of the statement.

If anything goes wrong during the live broadcasts, the watchdog warned respective radio and television stations will be held responsible for breaching the regulations. All stakeholders in the broadcasting industry were involved in drafting of the regulations.

These include electronic media, bloggers, the National Electoral Commission (NEC) and the Ministry of Information, Youth, Culture and Sports, said part of the statement.

“The TCRA stresses that broadcasting stations should inform the public without bias to enable the people make right decisions when electing their leaders,” the statement issued by TCRA Director General stated.

It added that live broadcasts should not be abusive or insulting nature which could incite violence. The programmes should focus on issues and programmes by political parties.”

The regulator reminded the electronic media to stick to professionalism and weigh issues to be aired to the public as the country gears for the elections.