Sector 3. 3.1 Broadcasting regulation is transparent and independent, the state broadcaster is transformed into a public broadcaster. Broadcasting is regulated by an independent body adequately protected against interference, particularly of a political and economic nature. ANALYSIS: The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) was established through Act no. 12 of 2003. The Director General of TCRA is a presidential appointee and the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of its Board of Directors are also presidential appointees. It thus casts a shadow of doubt on allegiance when the Director General is appointed by the President. It was noted that TCRA is perhaps one of the richest institutions in the country in terms of revenue collection because apart from collecting licensing fees from broadcasting stations, it is also responsible for licensing fees and other related revenues from mobile phone companies, and other communications utilities. However, its budget allocation is provided through the Ministry of Communication and Infrastructure, and this may jeopardize the regulatory body economically. SCORES: Individual scores: Average score: 3.2 2, 3, 3, 3, 2, 2, 2, 3, 2 2.4 (2006= 1.9) The appointments procedure for members of the regulatory body is open and transparent and involves civil society. ANALYSIS: The appointments procedures for the Director General (DG) and Members of the Board of the TCRA are outlined in the TCRA Act under s7.1 and s7.2. The DG, the chairperson and Vice Chairperson are all presidential appointees. Section 8 of the Act provides for the establishment of a Nomination Committee and makes reference to the appointment of two persons from the private sector, one of which will come from the legal recognised body of the private sector and another who would be nominated by the authority. There is no mention whatsoever of a representative from civil society. Section 37 establishes a five member Content Committee whose Chairperson is the Vice Chairperson of the Board. The four other members are meant to be appointed by the Minister in Consultation with the Board’s Chairperson. Civil society membership is not a pre-requisite to be a member of the Content Committee. SCORES: Individual scores: Average score: So This Is Democracy? 2008 1, 3, 4, 1, 1, 2, 2, 1, 1 1.8 (2006= 2.0) -236- Media Institute of Southern Africa