A Tanzanian opposition MP has been handed a five-month prison sentence after being found guilty of defaming President John Magufuli, The Citizen news site reports.
Joseph Mbilinyi - popularly known as Sugu - from the opposition Chadema party, was convicted by a magistrate's court in the southwestern town of Mbeya.
His co-accused, Emmanuel Masonga, was handed a similar prison sentence.
The two were accused of committing "hate speech" against President Magufuli at Mwenge Primary School in Mbeya on 30 December last year.
Mbilinyi earlier urged his supporters to remain calm and accept any form of court judgment.
Observers say the ruling will deepen concerns that Mr Magufuli's intolerance of dissent is eroding Tanzanian democracy.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Tags:
Latest Stories
-
2024 Election: Voter apathy caused NPP’s defeat – Justin Kodua
3 minutes -
Ghanaian teacher shortlisted for GEM’s $1m global prize
7 minutes -
Young entrepreneurs encouraged to capitalise on 5-year tax exemption Incentives
16 minutes -
Lord Morrgan fulfils promise; gifts fan Wale new motorbike
49 minutes -
CHAN 2024 Draw: Two-time Champions Morocco in Group A with hosts Kenya
55 minutes -
Disregarding ORAL’s mandate doesn’t help the nation – Kpebu
58 minutes -
NDC gov’t cannot fulfil its promises under the current IMF programme – Godfred Bokpin
1 hour -
13 newly recruited staff posted to Creative Arts Agency
1 hour -
NPP: You can’t blame me or the chairman for election defeat – Justin Kodua
1 hour -
ORAL team is illegal, Mahama was president-elect when he set up committee – Minority
2 hours -
27-year-old seeks to represent Ashanti Region on the Council of State
2 hours -
There is a new leader in town, but yet to be tested practically on the job – Nana Amoasi VII on Energy Minister-designate
2 hours -
Fire Service to restore fire tenders and establish permanent coverage at major markets- Alex King Nartey
2 hours -
“Even in death, you’re still touching lives” – Mother’s tribute to 10-year-old Lisa Laryea who died of Leukemia
2 hours -
Volta regional minister designate, James Gunu: A timely reset for development and progress
2 hours