By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Every Election Season, People Like Me Are Targeted — Tanzanian Journalist Speaks Out
Tanzanian journalist Mariam Staford has opened up about the wave of fear, intimidation, and violence that often shadows every election season in her country.
In a heartfelt statement, she described how journalists, human rights defenders, and ordinary citizens repeatedly become targets whenever political campaigns begin to heat up.
“Attacks on people like me happen every time my country has an election,” Mariam said, recalling years of harassment and trauma endured simply for doing her job. Her words capture a painful truth that many African journalists live with, that reporting during election periods often comes with personal risk.
She revealed that in the weeks leading to elections, journalists face arrests, threats, and online bullying, especially those who report on corruption or government misconduct.
For women in the media, she noted, the dangers are twofold: they suffer not only political intimidation but also gender-based abuse and sexual harassment.
Observers say Mariam’s experience mirrors a regional pattern where freedom of the press weakens during political contests. Across parts of Africa, elections that should serve as a celebration of democracy often become moments of crackdown, fear, and silence.
Rights organizations have repeatedly urged African governments, including Tanzania’s, to strengthen protections for journalists and guarantee freedom of expression without fear of reprisal.
The United Nations and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) have also expressed concern over the rise in attacks against media workers during election cycles.
Tanzania has a complex relationship with press freedom. Although the constitution guarantees freedom of the press, journalists and activists have long complained about restrictive media laws and the heavy hand of state security agencies.
During past elections, several reporters were detained, television stations were suspended, and social media platforms faced temporary restrictions, all in the name of national security.
Mariam Staford, who has been a vocal advocate for press freedom and women’s rights, has faced repeated harassment for her outspoken work.
Her testimony underscores the enduring struggles of Tanzanian journalists who continue to work under pressure, often with little institutional protection.
Despite these challenges, she says she remains committed to her calling: “We must keep telling the truth, even when it puts us at risk. Silence only empowers oppression.”
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