Tanzania Court Bans Live Coverage of Opposition Leader's Trial

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AUG 19

Above: Tanzania opposition leader Tundu Lissu speaks in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Aug. 28, 2020. Image copyright: Ericky Boniphace/Getty Images

story last updated AUG 20

The Spin

Pro-government narrative

This ruling is about protecting the integrity of the trial, narrowly focusing on the publication of witness names and faces. The media can still report on the case, just not details that could be used to reveal Tanzanian citizens' identities.

The Chanzo

Narrative B

This is the culmination of years of democratic backsliding under President Hassan's regime. While she initially sought dialogue with the opposition and achieved some social reforms, when it comes to democracy, she's banned the opposition party, arrested its leader, and now made his trial secret.

News Central TV