Tanzanians have reported difficulty accessing X in the past two weeks, coinciding with rising political unrest following a hack of the police's official account that exposed explicit material. The move has drawn criticism from local rights organizations like the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC), who argue that this represents a "troubling pattern of digital repression." They pointed out that a similar shutdown occurred before the 2020 elections, raising significant questions about the transparency of Tanzania's digital space and the government's commitment to open dialogue.
Minister Silaa indicated that the ban was influenced by X's earlier announcement that it would no longer censor consensually produced adult content. He emphasized that the government's measures extend beyond social media, affecting platforms like YouTube, as part of a broader initiative to uphold local laws. Reports suggest that various social applications, including Clubhouse and Telegram, are also being restricted without the use of virtual private networks (VPNs).
Additionally, the crackdown has intensified against activists and members of the opposition. Critics, including renowned Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire, have reported severe mistreatment in custody, including allegations of sexual assault. These events have raised alarms among regional rights advocates and organizations like Amnesty International, calling for accountability from the Tanzanian authorities.
As President Samia Suluhu Hassan approaches her first electoral campaign, she faces scrutiny for alleged authoritarian tendencies similar to those of her predecessor. Despite the government's claims of a stable democratic process, concerns continue to grow about the future of political freedom and human rights in Tanzania.
This situation highlights the ongoing struggle for digital rights and the protective measures needed to safeguard freedom of expression in the face of governmental repression.
Minister Silaa indicated that the ban was influenced by X's earlier announcement that it would no longer censor consensually produced adult content. He emphasized that the government's measures extend beyond social media, affecting platforms like YouTube, as part of a broader initiative to uphold local laws. Reports suggest that various social applications, including Clubhouse and Telegram, are also being restricted without the use of virtual private networks (VPNs).
Additionally, the crackdown has intensified against activists and members of the opposition. Critics, including renowned Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire, have reported severe mistreatment in custody, including allegations of sexual assault. These events have raised alarms among regional rights advocates and organizations like Amnesty International, calling for accountability from the Tanzanian authorities.
As President Samia Suluhu Hassan approaches her first electoral campaign, she faces scrutiny for alleged authoritarian tendencies similar to those of her predecessor. Despite the government's claims of a stable democratic process, concerns continue to grow about the future of political freedom and human rights in Tanzania.
This situation highlights the ongoing struggle for digital rights and the protective measures needed to safeguard freedom of expression in the face of governmental repression.
