The presidential commission of inquiry investigating events surrounding the election, including the ensuing unrest, has announced that it will no longer allow media participation during witness testimonies at public hearings. This is due to the concerns about the privacy of the participants.
The decision was announced on January 24, 2026, by the Vice Chairperson of the Commission, Retired Judge Ibrahim Juma, during a public hearing in Ubungo. The move follows the circulation of some of the most emotional revelations—such as missing bodies, killings, and injuries in homes—which were recorded and shared by the media, including The Chanzo, which has attended several public hearing sessions in Dar es Salaam.
“We have received complaints from victims who have come before the commission. In some areas, they report that certain information they shared with the commission, which they considered private, has been suddenly spread publicly—including their photos—without their permission,” Judge Juma told the audience, which included reporters.
“Some victims have received phone calls or have been approached for interviews, which they feel amounts to harassment by the media. To address this, today’s procedure will be as follows: I will first explain the work of the commission. When we begin hearing from the victims, all journalists will be asked to leave to ensure their privacy and protect their evidence. This will help safeguard the victims and encourage others who plan to come forward to do so without fear,” he continued.
“Once the hearings are completed, journalists may return and ask questions, including what activities the commission has undertaken,” he added.
The announcement has sparked wide debate on social media, with the commission facing criticism over issues of trust. Some participants who shared their testimonies with the commission have actively supported sharing their testimonies publicly; they have done so by calling the media and actively providing additional materials.
