The Chairperson of the Tanzania Editors Forum, Deodatus Balile, has criticized a cartoon by renowned artist Masoud Kipanya, which depicts the media being used as toilet paper.
Balile made these remarks during the closing of a meeting between the Ministry of Planning and editors concerning the National Vision 2050.
“Those who despise us and portray us as toilet paper, perhaps that brings them joy. But let us not be thin-skinned. If you are compared to toilet paper, society will still judge you based on your actions,” Balile said.
While Balile did not mention Kipanya by name, the cartoon in question, originally published in 2023 and recently reposted by Kipanya on July 1, 2025, has been widely circulated on social media.
“It’s a disgraceful habit for some people to think that insulting others earns them honor and respect in society and perhaps sends to donors presenting that they are doing things well while putting in rainbow colors,” Balile explained.
He added: “As for those engaging in this behavior, we will establish procedures to investigate whether they are genuinely practicing journalism or simply acting as agents serving others who later file to get paid.”
Kipanya is best known for his political cartoons, which he has produced for over 25 years. He is also a co-host of Power Breakfast, one of the most popular morning radio shows on Clouds FM. He is considered one of the driving forces behind the program. Kipanya has been off-air since the ultimatum issued by the Tanzania Journalists Accreditation Board came into effect.
