In a bold move reflecting its stance on online content, Tanzania has announced the restriction of the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. Information Minister Jerry Silaa stated that the decision stems from the platform's allowance of pornographic material, which he claims goes against the country's "laws, culture, customs, and traditions." This action follows reports of heightened political tensions and a recent hacking incident concerning the police's social media account.
Local reports confirm that many Tanzanians have faced limited access to X for the past fortnight, particularly as the country approaches key presidential and parliamentary elections in October. The Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC), a Tanzanian rights organization, expressed concern that this move contributes to a "troubling pattern of digital repression." The group highlighted that similar restrictions were imposed ahead of the 2020 elections, raising alarms about the increasing limitations on digital freedoms.
The LHRC criticized the government's inconsistent use of the platform, noting that while officials are blocking access, they continue to utilize X for communication. Minister Silaa cited X's permit of explicit content, including same-sex pornography, as a violation of Tanzanian online ethics. The minister further emphasized that broader efforts to regulate online platforms include restrictions on YouTube and other services.
Compounding these issues, the incident of the police account being hacked surfaced reports of offensive content, including false claims about the president's death. The hacking correlated with a crackdown on activists from neighboring Kenya and Uganda who had come to support detained opposition leader Tundu Lissu, facing treason charges amidst allegations of a politically motivated case.
Disturbing testimonies have emerged from these activists, with claims of severe mistreatment including sexual abuse during their detention. Human rights activists are demanding thorough investigations into these allegations, urging accountability for the inhumane treatment reported.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan is now facing criticism for her government’s repressive tactics, raising concerns that she may reflect the authoritarian tendencies of her predecessor. As she prepares for her first official election as the ruling party's candidate, the government insists that Tanzania maintains a stable democratic framework and promises a fair electoral process.
Local reports confirm that many Tanzanians have faced limited access to X for the past fortnight, particularly as the country approaches key presidential and parliamentary elections in October. The Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC), a Tanzanian rights organization, expressed concern that this move contributes to a "troubling pattern of digital repression." The group highlighted that similar restrictions were imposed ahead of the 2020 elections, raising alarms about the increasing limitations on digital freedoms.
The LHRC criticized the government's inconsistent use of the platform, noting that while officials are blocking access, they continue to utilize X for communication. Minister Silaa cited X's permit of explicit content, including same-sex pornography, as a violation of Tanzanian online ethics. The minister further emphasized that broader efforts to regulate online platforms include restrictions on YouTube and other services.
Compounding these issues, the incident of the police account being hacked surfaced reports of offensive content, including false claims about the president's death. The hacking correlated with a crackdown on activists from neighboring Kenya and Uganda who had come to support detained opposition leader Tundu Lissu, facing treason charges amidst allegations of a politically motivated case.
Disturbing testimonies have emerged from these activists, with claims of severe mistreatment including sexual abuse during their detention. Human rights activists are demanding thorough investigations into these allegations, urging accountability for the inhumane treatment reported.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan is now facing criticism for her government’s repressive tactics, raising concerns that she may reflect the authoritarian tendencies of her predecessor. As she prepares for her first official election as the ruling party's candidate, the government insists that Tanzania maintains a stable democratic framework and promises a fair electoral process.
