Larry Madowo Leaks Shocking Message Tanzanian Police Allegedly Sent After Internet Blackout
Tanzania’s post-election tension escalated this week after international journalist Larry Madowo shared what he said were messages from Tanzanian police warning citizens about their online activity after internet services were restored.
The country had been on the edge after the October 29 general elections which were marred by allegations of rigging and violent protests that led to a dusk-to-dawn curfew. The government also imposed a nationwide internet shutdown that limited communication and drew criticism from rights groups.
According to global internet observatory NetBlocks, partial connectivity was restored on Monday November 3 after a five-day outage. “Live metrics show widespread restrictions to multiple social media and messaging platforms as Tanzania comes back online,” the organization said in a statement.
Soon after the partial restoration, screenshots started circulating online claiming police had issued a public warning to internet users. The message, reportedly sent at 12:57 pm, read: “Avoid sharing photos or videos that may cause panic or demean a person’s dignity. Doing so is a criminal offence, and if found, strict legal action will be taken.”
Larry Madowo, a CNN correspondent, posted what appeared to be one of these messages on social media and noted it was sent to several citizens across the country. His post got many reactions with many Tanzanians questioning the government’s approach to communication and freedom of expression during the political crisis.
This came a day after President Samia Suluhu Hassan was officially sworn in for a new five-year term after being declared the winner of the October 29 polls with 98% of the vote.
In her inaugural speech, President Samia condemned the violence that followed the election, expressed sorrow over the loss of life and destruction of property. She also alleged many of those arrested during the protests were foreigners and urged citizens to embrace peace and dialogue.
As Tanzania begins a new chapter, concerns remain on how authorities will handle dissent and control information online after one of the country’s most tumultuous elections in recent years.
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Larry Madowo Leaks Shocking Message Tanzanian Police Allegedly Sent After Internet Blackout