DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — Despite a partial restoration of internet services after Tanzania’s contentious general election, citizens continue to face strict digital restrictions, with authorities warning against sharing content related to post-election protests and unrest.
The move has raised concerns about freedom of expression and access to vital information during a period of heightened tension.
The internet was initially shut down nationwide on October 29 after a tense election day marked by public demonstrations.
Live metrics published by NetBlocks on Monday evening confirmed that widespread restrictions remained active on multiple social media and messaging platforms, hindering access to crucial digital communication tools.
Human rights alarms and suppression of information
The sustained internet restrictions have drawn immediate alarm from human rights organizations, which classify the actions as a violation of fundamental human rights.
Amnesty International raised concern, emphasizing the immediate dangers posed by the information blackout:
“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,” Amnesty International said on Monday evening.
The rights body further noted that the restrictions severely hinder both local and international organizations in their ability to document serious human rights violations, such as killings or the disproportionate use of force by security forces.
The shutdown has directly complicated the verification of various assault and murder claims arising from the unrest.
Police warnings and curfew enforcement
When internet services were partially restored on Monday evening, users reported receiving official messages from the police, warning them against sharing photos and videos that could potentially cause panic among the populace.
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Meanwhile, a strict curfew, commencing at 6 pm, remains in effect across certain areas, and police have threatened severe action against anyone attempting to disrupt national peace. Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Alfred Chalamila issued an unambiguous warning to potential agitators:
“Even if you see there’s propaganda of any kind on social media about any area of the Dar es Salaam region, know the power that will be used to control the matter is seven times more than the force applied for planning it.”
The disputed swearing-In
The restrictions and security measures coincided with the official swearing-in of President Samia Suluhu Hassan for a second term. According to the electoral commission, she secured a victory with 98 per cent of the vote.
The 65-year-old President formally took the oath of power on Monday at the State House in the capital, Dodoma, during a private ceremony closed to the public and attended by only a few invited guests.
Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chadema, vehemently criticized the outcome, claiming that hundreds of people had been killed in the ensuing protests.
The government, however, has dismissed the alleged death toll as “hugely exaggerated” and has rejected all criticisms regarding its human rights record.
President Samia’s victory has been broadly criticized by activists and human rights groups, who widely label it a flawed election.
