VOA English to Africa Service’s Paul Alexander and Peter Clottey contributed to this report.
Tanzania’s government on Monday charged investigative journalist Erick Kabendera with money laundering, tax evasion and assisting a criminal racket.
Kabendera has been in custody since July 29. Suspects charged with money laundering are not eligible for bail, so news reports say he could remain in jail until his case is resolved, which could take three years. Kabendera’s alleged violations occurred between early 2015 and last month. His next court date is Aug. 19.
The freelance journalist has been critical of President John Magufuli’s administration and the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi Party in stories for The Guardian, The East African, and The Times of London.
