Tanzania blocked access to X one week before national elections, allowing only government officials and President Samia Suluhu Hassan to use the platform. Authorities cited concerns about misinformation and national security, but critics argue the ban suppresses opposition voices and limits electoral transparency.
The restriction follows the arrest of opposition leader Tundu Lissu on treason charges earlier this week. Officials disqualified him from the election, prompting accusations that the government seeks to eliminate political competition ahead of the vote.
Human rights organizations condemned the digital blackout as an attack on democratic principles. The Committee to Protect Journalists and Amnesty International urged immediate restoration of internet freedoms, warning that the move undermines public trust.
Citizens attempted to bypass restrictions through virtual private networks, but authorities began blocking these services. Opposition leader Freeman Mbowe called the situation a state-sanctioned effort to avoid accountability while vowing to mobilize voters through alternative channels.
The restriction follows the arrest of opposition leader Tundu Lissu on treason charges earlier this week. Officials disqualified him from the election, prompting accusations that the government seeks to eliminate political competition ahead of the vote.
Human rights organizations condemned the digital blackout as an attack on democratic principles. The Committee to Protect Journalists and Amnesty International urged immediate restoration of internet freedoms, warning that the move undermines public trust.
Citizens attempted to bypass restrictions through virtual private networks, but authorities began blocking these services. Opposition leader Freeman Mbowe called the situation a state-sanctioned effort to avoid accountability while vowing to mobilize voters through alternative channels.
