Under Soko’s leadership, MISA-TAN is expected to continue its efforts to empower journalists and promote a resilient and independent media landscape. Photo: Courtesy
By The Respondent reporter
Dodoma: The Media Institute of Southern Africa - Tanzania Chapter (MISA-TAN) has ushered in a new era of leadership with the election of Mr. Edwin Soko as Chairperson for a three-year term.
The election, held Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at the UCSAF Hall in Dodoma, marks a significant transition in the organization, which champions press freedom and journalists' rights in Tanzania and across Southern Africa.
Mr. Soko succeeds Salome Kitomari, who has led MISA-TAN since 2018. Under Ms. Kitomari’s tenure, the organization played a critical role in advocating for media freedoms amidst various challenges.
The election was overseen by Election Committee Chair Ali Aboth, who declared Soko the winner with 33 votes. Runner-up Said Mmanga received 9 votes, followed by Betty Masanja with 3 votes, out of 46 total ballots cast, with one spoiled vote.
Two new board members were also elected: Alex Benson Sichona, with 28 votes, and Proper Kwigize, with 31 votes. Other contenders included Othman Maalim (15 votes), Isaack Wakuganda (8 votes), and Juma Mudimi (8 votes).
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Soko pledged significant reforms within the first 100 days of his leadership. He emphasized the need to advance MISA-TAN’s mission of promoting a free and independent media sector in Tanzania.
Outgoing Chair Salome Kitomari advised the new leadership to adhere to the organization’s constitution and principles, ensuring accountability and integrity in their operations.
MISA-TAN serves as a crucial advocate for press freedom, the protection of journalists, and the promotion of ethical media practices in Tanzania and the Southern African region.
It collaborates with stakeholders to foster an enabling environment for journalists to work freely and safely.
The organization also provides legal support to media professionals facing persecution and engages in policy advocacy to ensure laws governing the media sector are progressive and supportive of democratic values.
Under Mr. Soko’s leadership, MISA-TAN is expected to continue its efforts to empower journalists and promote a resilient and independent media landscape, strengthening democracy and accountability in the region.
Mr. Soko’s bold vision includes building strategic alliances, enhancing media capacity, and fostering robust advocacy to confront emerging challenges. His leadership ushers hope for transformative growth in press freedom.