A Kenyan journalist has reportedly been arrested by Tanzanian security officers at the Lunga Lunga border while covering protests taking place in Tanzania.
In a statement on Friday, October 31, VOCAL Africa CEO Hussein Khalid condemned the incident, questioning the legality of Tanzanian police operating within Kenyan territory.
"What are Tanzanian police officers, the so-called Usalama wa Taifa, doing on the Kenyan side of the border arresting Kenyan journalists?
"Journalist Shoka Juma of Nyota TV has been arrested at the Kenyan side of the Lunga Lunga border and is currently being held by Tanzanian security officers," the statement read.
Elsewhere, CNN International Correspondent Larry Madowo on Thursday, October 30, explained why he is not covering the Tanzanian general election and the nationwide protests.
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He noted that foreign journalists must obtain media accreditation to report in the country, a requirement he said the Tanzanian government rarely fulfills.
Madowo pointed out that historically, obtaining media accreditation in Tanzania has been difficult, adding that the situation has worsened under President Samia Suluhu.
"Why am I not covering the election in Tanzania and the aftermath, and I am all the way up here in Las Vegas? The simple reason is that Tanzania does not like independent critical reporting.
"To operate in the country as a foreigner, I need media accreditation, so essentially permission from the government, and historically, Tanzania does not issue these permits. It used to be a problem even under President Magufuli. It has not gotten better under President Samia Suluhu," he stated.
However, Madowo said he can visit Tanzania as a tourist without a visa since he is a Kenyan citizen, but noted that he would risk arrest and deportation if he attempted to do any news reporting.
"Could I go as a tourist because I don’t need a visa as a Kenyan, yes, but I am not allowed to report in that status. I would be in violation of the law. I could be arrested, deported, or worse," he added.
At the same time, the United States (US) Embassy in Tanzania has issued a fresh security alert to American citizens living in Tanzania following widespread demonstrations in the country.
In a statement on Thursday, the US Embassy advised American Citizens to shelter in place.
The embassy cautioned US citizens against traveling by road, noting that the ongoing protests in Tanzania have led to incidents of violence and the erection of roadblocks.
"The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens to shelter in place. There are reports of country-wide demonstrations resulting in outbreaks of violence and roadblocks. Travel by road poses a significant risk," read part of the advisory.
The US Embassy also pointed out that internet access has become intermittent, severely affecting communication and access to information.
"Many international flights have been canceled; confirm your flight via telephone prior to traveling to the airport," the embassy stated.
Further, the embassy advised U.S. citizens to avoid demonstrations and crowds, maintain a low profile, monitor local media for updates, and be aware of their surroundings.
The Americans were also asked to check in with friends and family to let them know they are safe.
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