**The Tanzanian government has announced a shutdown of social media platform X due to concerns over explicit content, amid allegations of increasing repression ahead of the upcoming elections.**
**Tanzania Imposes Ban on Social Media Platform X Amid Concerns of Digital Repression**
**Tanzania Imposes Ban on Social Media Platform X Amid Concerns of Digital Repression**
**Government Takes Action Against Pornographic Content in Bid to Protect Cultural Values**
Tanzania's government has decided to block access to the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, due to its allowance of pornographic content, which the information minister deems incompatible with the nation's cultural and legal standards. Jerry Silaa stated that the government was acting to preserve the country's morals in light of content considered "contrary to our laws, culture, customs, and traditions." Users in Tanzania have noted restricted access to X over the past few weeks, especially amid rising political tensions linked to the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections, but a complete ban has yet to be enforced.
A local rights group, the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC), criticized this move, labeling it part of a "troubling pattern of digital repression." The group drew parallels to the shutdown of X ahead of the 2020 elections, suggesting that these actions indicate declining freedoms within the digital space in Tanzania. The LHRC pointed out the irony of government officials still utilizing X while restricting public access, which they argue sends mixed signals and undermines governmental integrity.
In his remarks, Silaa connected the ban to X’s recent shift in policy to allow consensually created adult content, claiming that it includes explicit sexual material, specifically citing same-sex pornography. This shift in content policy further strained relations as Tanzania simultaneously looks to protect its citizens and maintain adherence to ethical online practices.
Additionally, Tanzania's crackdown on digital platforms follows a worrying trend of hostility towards regional activists. Following the hacking of the official police account, which displayed pornographic content and false news regarding President Samia Suluhu Hassan's death, tensions escalated, particularly with the government's response to opposition leader Tundu Lissu's call for electoral reform.
The situation is complicated, as the Tanzanian authorities face accusations of abuse and harassment against foreign activists. Reports of mistreatment have surfaced, with Kenyan activist Martha Karua being deported and allegations of sexual abuse against others detained. In response, regional rights advocates have demanded an investigation, while Amnesty International calls on the Tanzanian authorities to address these claims seriously.
As President Hassan prepares for her first official election, critics assert that her administration is mirroring the authoritarian measures of her predecessor, John Magufuli, despite an initial reputation for progressive political liberalization. The Tanzanian government, however, maintains its stance that the upcoming elections will be democratic and free from coercion, even amidst these ongoing controversies.
A local rights group, the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC), criticized this move, labeling it part of a "troubling pattern of digital repression." The group drew parallels to the shutdown of X ahead of the 2020 elections, suggesting that these actions indicate declining freedoms within the digital space in Tanzania. The LHRC pointed out the irony of government officials still utilizing X while restricting public access, which they argue sends mixed signals and undermines governmental integrity.
In his remarks, Silaa connected the ban to X’s recent shift in policy to allow consensually created adult content, claiming that it includes explicit sexual material, specifically citing same-sex pornography. This shift in content policy further strained relations as Tanzania simultaneously looks to protect its citizens and maintain adherence to ethical online practices.
Additionally, Tanzania's crackdown on digital platforms follows a worrying trend of hostility towards regional activists. Following the hacking of the official police account, which displayed pornographic content and false news regarding President Samia Suluhu Hassan's death, tensions escalated, particularly with the government's response to opposition leader Tundu Lissu's call for electoral reform.
The situation is complicated, as the Tanzanian authorities face accusations of abuse and harassment against foreign activists. Reports of mistreatment have surfaced, with Kenyan activist Martha Karua being deported and allegations of sexual abuse against others detained. In response, regional rights advocates have demanded an investigation, while Amnesty International calls on the Tanzanian authorities to address these claims seriously.
As President Hassan prepares for her first official election, critics assert that her administration is mirroring the authoritarian measures of her predecessor, John Magufuli, despite an initial reputation for progressive political liberalization. The Tanzanian government, however, maintains its stance that the upcoming elections will be democratic and free from coercion, even amidst these ongoing controversies.
