In a recent move, Tanzania has restricted access to the social media platform X, citing concerns over pornographic content shared on the site. Information Minister Jerry Silaa stated that such content violates the country's laws, customs, and traditions, leading to the government's decision to block the platform.
Despite these restrictions, access to X has been uneven, with many users experiencing varied connectivity over the past two weeks, particularly following a hacking incident involving the official police account that displayed explicit material. This has raised alarms among digital rights advocates, who argue that the ban illustrates a troubling trend toward digital repression in Tanzania as the country approaches its presidential and parliamentary elections set for October.
The Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC), a Tanzanian rights group, posted on X that Silaa’s comments highlighted serious concerns over the shrinking digital space in the country. They recalled similar actions taken ahead of the 2020 elections and emphasized the inconsistency in the government's approach, noting that while officials block X, they continue to use it for communication with the public.
In his remarks, Silaa pointed to X's new policies that allow the sharing of adult content as part of the rationale for the ban. He stated that the government’s broader efforts to regulate online content also include restricting access to other platforms, including Clubhouse and Telegram, without the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).
Additionally, the backdrop of increased political activism and tension has seen various human rights campaigns being met with hostility. Notable figures like opposition leader Tundu Lissu have faced legal challenges, with rights activists being deported or detained for speaking out against the government. Allegations of torture and inhumane treatment have emerged from these detentions, with calls from regional rights groups and Amnesty International for accountability from Tanzanian authorities.
As President Samia Suluhu Hassan's administration prepares for the upcoming elections, critics claim she is displaying repressive tendencies similar to her predecessor after previously being praised for political liberalization. The Tanzanian government maintains its commitment to holding a fair election, countering accusations of authoritarianism and emphasizing the nation’s stability.
As the situation unfolds, concerns continue to mount over digital rights and freedoms in Tanzania.
Despite these restrictions, access to X has been uneven, with many users experiencing varied connectivity over the past two weeks, particularly following a hacking incident involving the official police account that displayed explicit material. This has raised alarms among digital rights advocates, who argue that the ban illustrates a troubling trend toward digital repression in Tanzania as the country approaches its presidential and parliamentary elections set for October.
The Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC), a Tanzanian rights group, posted on X that Silaa’s comments highlighted serious concerns over the shrinking digital space in the country. They recalled similar actions taken ahead of the 2020 elections and emphasized the inconsistency in the government's approach, noting that while officials block X, they continue to use it for communication with the public.
In his remarks, Silaa pointed to X's new policies that allow the sharing of adult content as part of the rationale for the ban. He stated that the government’s broader efforts to regulate online content also include restricting access to other platforms, including Clubhouse and Telegram, without the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).
Additionally, the backdrop of increased political activism and tension has seen various human rights campaigns being met with hostility. Notable figures like opposition leader Tundu Lissu have faced legal challenges, with rights activists being deported or detained for speaking out against the government. Allegations of torture and inhumane treatment have emerged from these detentions, with calls from regional rights groups and Amnesty International for accountability from Tanzanian authorities.
As President Samia Suluhu Hassan's administration prepares for the upcoming elections, critics claim she is displaying repressive tendencies similar to her predecessor after previously being praised for political liberalization. The Tanzanian government maintains its commitment to holding a fair election, countering accusations of authoritarianism and emphasizing the nation’s stability.
As the situation unfolds, concerns continue to mount over digital rights and freedoms in Tanzania.
