According to reports, access to X has already been limited for the past two weeks amid rising political tensions over a hacked police account that disseminated explicit content. Critics, including the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC), have called the government's decision a reflection of an alarming trend toward digital repression, reminiscent of events leading up to the 2020 election when similar restrictions were imposed on social media.
Tanzania's government has been accused of increasingly authoritarian measures, particularly as the presidential race approaches. Silaa linked the ban to X's previous announcement allowing adult content, including same-sex material, which he claims violates Tanzanian online ethics. Additionally, popular platforms like Clubhouse and Telegram are also reported to be inaccessible without a VPN.
The situation escalated when human rights activists faced harassment in Tanzania. Kenyan activist Martha Karua was deported after arriving in Dar es Salaam to support opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who is facing a treason charge for advocating political reforms. Reports of activists being tortured and sexually assaulted in custody have drawn strong criticism from regional and international rights groups.
Despite an image of political stability, critics argue that President Suluhu, who succeeded John Magufuli, is adopting similar tactics of repression as she seeks her first term as the ruling party's candidate. As tensions rise, Tanzanian authorities insist that the approaching elections will be fair and transparent.
