Tanzania Blocks Twitter Due To Political Tensions
Tanzania has restricted access to the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, in response to escalating political tensions. The internet monitoring group Netblocks confirmed that X is being limited by major internet providers in the country.
The move coincides with the arrest of several prominent opposition figures, including Tundu Lissu and four other members of the Chadema party. These arrests occurred in Mbeya, just before a planned World Youth Day rally. The following day, Chadema’s chairman and youth wing leader were also detained.
Tanzania’s police force, TANPOL, has warned Chadema members about using Zoom to organize small group meetings, which they allege are planning attacks on offices and police stations. Many Tanzanians have turned to VPN services to bypass the restrictions and express their concerns on X.
This action follows previous considerations by Tanzanian authorities to control internet usage, including a proposed mandatory VPN license. The trend of internet restrictions is becoming more common globally, often used to suppress dissent during political unrest. Similar incidents have occurred in Kenya and Senegal earlier this year.
Internet shutdowns and restrictions impact not only social media but also communication, commerce, and daily life. The use of VPNs to evade these measures highlights the conflict between government control and citizens’ desire for open communication.
Human rights organizations criticize these restrictions as violations of freedom of expression and access to information. The situation in Tanzania reflects broader concerns about democracy and civil liberties in the country.
Source: Tech Africa
