Recently, the government expelled from the country several Kenyan journalists working with Mwananchi Communications Company for violating the country’s immigration laws. Do you think the government was too harsh in taking that action?

NO. I think the government was not too harsh in its ruling. I believe that every country has its laws and all people that migrate into that country have to adhere to the laws. It is the truth that whoever took that action was fulfilling a duty to the United Republic. The defaulters knew quite well that what they were doing was contrary to the law, but they did that, I believe, on the simple perception that Tanzanian authorities are always ‘asleep’.
Paul Ndui – Businessman.

YES. I think the government took a step that was too harsh for our neighbours. What should have been done would have been to show a bit of leniency to them, because after all we already have the EAC, and in 2007, we should have the Free Movement of Labour and Persons within the EAC. I admit that they had defaulted and deserved punishment, but at least they should have been allowed to seek the necessary documents and resume work.
Maria Peter – Nursing Officer.

NO. I am of the opinion that the government acted fairly towards the said defaulters. This is because, these neighbours of ours have a deep belief that Tanzanians know nothing and that they are in deep slumber. On the other hand, they believe that they are cleverer than Tanzanians, more educated, speak better English and so forth. So to make them realize that Tanzanians after all are not sleeping, harsh steps were needed to be taken. Let this be a lesson to their colleagues who have such a belief.
Edwin Mganga – Manager.

NO. The government was not too harsh in taking such a step, because that is enshrined in the laws of this country. On the contrary, I feel that the government should be commended for taking such a firm stand on all who violate the laws. It would be unfair and foolish to have unnecessary mercy for neighbours who go against the laws. They knew very well what they were supposed to do, but by sheer neglect they acted as they have done.
Sofia Hussein – Food Vendor.

Compiled by Timothy Kitundu.