MCT mourns the loss of its President, Judge Mlay
The late President and Chairman of the Media Council of Tanzania (MCT), Board, Judge Juxon Isaac Mlay.
By Paul Mallimbo
The Media Council of Tanzania (MCT) mourns the loss of its esteemed President and Chairman of the Board, Hon. Judge Juxon Isaac Mlay, who passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2024, while receiving treatment in India.
Judge Mlay, a retired High Court Judge of Tanzania, was a dedicated leader and advocate for media ethics and professionalism.
Judge Mlay was first elected as MCT President in September 2020, succeeding Hon. Judge Thomas Mihayo.
He was re-elected for a second term in September 2023, leading a board composed of eight members. Prior to his presidency, he served as the Chairman of the Ethics Committee of the MCT for six years, where he was known for his unwavering commitment to justice and journalistic ethics.
Throughout his career, Judge Mlay was dedicated to ensuring the media adhered to high standards of ethics and professionalism. He was respected for his thorough mediation in cases of journalistic misconduct and his fairness in upholding journalistic integrity. Judge Mlay frequently visited media outlets facing ethical challenges, offering his expertise and guidance to help them navigate complex issues.
During his tenure as President, Judge Mlay played a crucial role in the institutional sustainability of the MCT. He also oversaw the appointment of the new Executive Secretary, Mr. Ernest Sungura, who took over from Mr. Kajubi Mukajanga in January 2024.
Judge Mlay’s body is expected to arrive in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at 9:20 AM via Air Tanzania. A ceremony for the last respects will be held on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at the Azania Front Church starting at 10 AM. The burial will take place on Friday, May 31, 2024, in Himo, Moshi District, Kilimanjaro Region.
Judge Mlay had a distinguished career in the judiciary and public service. He was first elected to the MCT Board in 2014 and chaired the Ethics Committee from 2014 to 2017. He was re-elected in 2017, continuing to lead the Ethics Committee and serving on the Audit Committee.
His extensive career included roles as an Assistant Parliamentary Draftsman, head of the Legal and Prosecution Section at the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB), Senior Assistant Parliamentary Draftsman, Senior Clerk Assistant of the National Assembly, Deputy Chief Parliamentary Draftsman, Director of Constitutional
Affairs, and Director of Public Prosecutions. From 2000 to 2009, he served as a High Court Judge before retiring.
The MCT mourns the loss of a dedicated, honest, and diligent leader. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife, children, and all relatives affected by this loss. May they find comfort and strength during this difficult time.