On August 30th, 2024, Tanzania witnessed a troubling development that has raised serious concerns about the future of digital rights and freedom of expression in the country. At approximately 11:00 AM, users across Tanzania began experiencing difficulties in accessing the X platform (formerly Twitter), a widely used social media service.
This disruption was soon confirmed to be a deliberate restriction imposed by several major mobile companies and Internet Service Providers (ISPs), including Airtel and Vodacom.
The Internet Governance Tanzania Working Group (IGTWG), a coalition led by Civil Society and coordinated by Tech & Media Convergency – dedicated to promoting an open, secure, and inclusive digital environment, swiftly condemned the move, labeling it a significant threat to digital rights and the free flow of information in Tanzania through their released statement dated August 31st, 2024.
A Critical Tool for Accountability Silenced
It is the second time this year that the restriction of the X platform has drawn significant attention in Tanzania. Just ten weeks ago, a campaign led by the ruling party’s youth wing, with support from certain religious leaders, sought to shut down the platform.
The sudden restriction is deeply concerning in a country where digital platforms like X serve as essential tools for political discourse, activism, and holding authorities accountable. Social media influencers, activists, and ordinary citizens rely on X to voice their opinions, highlight governance issues, and mobilize for change.
The platform’s role as a hub for public discourse makes its restriction not only infringe on individual freedoms but also a broader attack on democratic participation.
The timing of this shutdown coincides with escalating political tensions between the government and the main opposition party, CHADEMA, following the abduction of several individuals, including youth leaders from CHADEMA.
Notably, prominent activist Tito Magoti led a call for a peaceful digital campaign under the hashtag #ZuiaUtekaji (Swahili for – top Abductions). This campaign urged online users to email the President at the State House, demanding public accountability and action on the abductions.
Legal Concerns and the Fight for Free Expression
The restriction of access to X comes at a critical time, with activists launching an online campaign to demand justice and action from President Samia Suluhu Hassan regarding recent incidents of abductions, murders, and disappearances.
Although the platform was not officially banned, the restriction has sparked fears that this is a precursor to more extensive censorship, particularly as Tanzania approaches its election period.
The IGTWG has highlighted that this move violates several fundamental rights protected under Tanzanian law. Article 18 of the Tanzania Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of expression, while the Access to Information Act (2016) emphasizes the right to access information held by public bodies.
By restricting access to X, the government and ISPs are infringing upon these legal protections, curtailing the public’s ability to stay informed and engage in critical debates.
A Call for Transparency and Accountability
In response to these developments, the IGTWG has called on mobile companies and ISPs to maintain the restoration of the X platform immediately. They have demanded transparency from these providers, urging them to publicly explain the rationale behind the restrictions.
The group warns that such actions not only violate digital rights but also harm the digital economy by obstructing users’ ability to engage in online commerce and communication.
The IGTWG’s statement also calls on the Tanzanian government, the private sector, academia, the technical community, and civil society to collaborate in ensuring that the Internet remains a space for free expression, access to information, and economic empowerment for all Tanzanians. The group remains vigilant and committed to advocating for the protection of digital rights in the face of such challenges.
The Broader Implications
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragile state of digital rights in Tanzania and the potential for further restrictions as political tensions escalate. The IGTWG’s swift response underscores the importance of maintaining an open and transparent digital environment, particularly in a time where information is power, and access to it is a fundamental right.
As Tanzania moves closer to its election period, the actions taken by ISPs and the government will be closely watched, both domestically and internationally. The protection of digital rights is not just a matter of access but a cornerstone of democratic participation and accountability.