Tanzania Faces Partial Internet Blackout Despite Restoration After Disputed Election
Rights group Amnesty International condemned the restrictions, calling them a violation of human rights and freedom of expression
Tanzanians remain under partial internet restrictions even after the restoration of online services, following a tense and highly disputed election marred by violence and demonstrations
The country went offline on October 29 after a day of unrest triggered by the disqualification of two leading opposition candidates. NetBlocks data on Monday evening indicated continued widespread disruptions across major social media and messaging platforms
Rights group Amnesty International condemned the restrictions, calling them a violation of human rights and freedom of expression
“Imposing internet shutdowns, especially when people are protesting, stops important information from reaching citizens such as how to find areas of safety or contact emergency services,” the organization said
Amnesty further warned that the blackout hampers both local and international organizations from documenting potential abuses, including killings and excessive use of force by authorities
When connectivity was partially restored on Monday evening, users received police messages warning against sharing “panic-causing” photos and videos. A dusk-to-dawn curfew remains in place, with officials threatening harsh action against anyone “disrupting peace”
“Even if you see propaganda on social media about any area of the Dar es Salaam region, know that the power used to control it will be seven times stronger,” cautioned Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Alfred Chalamila
Also read : Kenya Reaffirms Strong Ties with Tanzania as Suluhu Sworn In Amid Post-Election Turmoil
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, 65, was sworn in for a second term on Monday after the electoral commission declared she won with 98 percent of the vote. The swearing-in ceremony at State House in Dodoma was closed to the public, with only select guests in attendance
Opposition party Chadema claims that hundreds were killed during post-election protests a figure the government has dismissed as “hugely exaggerated.” Activists and human rights groups have described the vote as deeply flawed, citing widespread intimidation and suppression of dissent
The continued internet restrictions have further crippled efforts to verify reports of violence and human rights abuses across the country
Writer : Mweru Mbugua
