DAR ES SALAAM, Sept. 22 -- IT is that time again, when the political drums are beating, posters are going up and slogans are getting louder.

Yes, Tanzania heads to the polls this October and the air, both online and offline, is thick with opinions, promises and unfortunately, some poisonous misinformation.

In the age of the smartphone, everyone with a data bundle and an opinion becomes a “journalist.”

But let us get something straight: Freedom of expression is not freedom from accountability. If you operate as a journalist especially online, then act like one. Register your platform, respect the law and uphold the ethics that come with the title.

Because the line between expression and incitement is not as blurry as you th...