SECTOR 1 Some panellists observed that citizens expressed their views and opinions through letters to the editor, phone-in programmes, chats in public transport and even periodic messages on placards. However, it was also noted that a great deal of editing was done to letters from the public for publication, unlike in the past when such feedback from readers was welcome by managing editors or senior staff in the newsrooms. “Today,” said a panellist, “letters to the editors are edited badly to the extent of altering the original meaning.” Panellists noted that ordinary people in the rural areas were slightly more bold and that whenever they had a listening ear, including media, they utilised the opportunity to express their views and opinions on various issues without fear. On another note, a panellist indicated that journalists themselves were on occasion involved in corrupt practices and that some of them were being used as mules or hacks for businessmen and politicians. Panellists also pointed out that the media in Tanzania could be divided into two types: those that were serious about media and operated in accordance with principles of journalism; and those that were established to help their owners settle political and/or business scores with their rivals or enemies. As a result of the above factors, panellists gave Tanzania an average of 2.0 - down 0.8 from the country’s 2008 score. The attack on journalists seems to have had a major influence in the panellists’ voting. Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator. 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 12 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER TANZANIA 2010 2.0 (2008 = 2.8 ; 2006 = 1.1)