Journalist Larry Madowo has voiced concern over what he described as a complete media blackout and internet shutdown in Tanzania amid widespread protests following last week’s disputed elections.
His statement, shared on X, paints a grim picture of restricted press freedom and growing unrest under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration.
Madowo said the government was actively suppressing coverage even as demonstrations against alleged election irregularities entered their third day.
The protests, led mainly by the opposition party CHADEMA, have reportedly turned deadly, with the party claiming that more than 700 people have been killed.
According to Madowo, local media outlets have gone silent since the elections.
“Tanzanian news outlets shared pictures of voting three days ago then just stopped covering the news. They’re acting like the protests don’t exist,” he wrote.
His post highlights a growing concern among journalists and rights groups about the shrinking space for independent reporting in Tanzania.
Access to the internet and social media platforms remains heavily restricted, making it difficult for citizens to share information or for journalists to verify reports from the ground.
VPN use has surged as people attempt to bypass the shutdown and communicate with the outside world.
International organizations and human rights bodies have urged Tanzania to lift restrictions, restore communication channels, and guarantee citizens’ right to information.
President Samia’s leadership is now facing increasing scrutiny both locally and abroad.
The unrest and censorship allegations have revived old questions about transparency, accountability, and political tolerance in the country’s democratic processes.
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