Tanzania Partially Restores Internet, Warns Citizens Against Sharing Protest Images

Tanzania, 4 November 2025 - Tanzania has started to partially restore internet access after nearly a week of blackout following violent protests that broke out during the country’s 29 October 2025 elections.

However, authorities have warned citizens against sharing photos or videos of the unrest online.

The government issued text messages to mobile phone users on Monday evening, cautioning that anyone who circulates content “that may cause public panic or insult human dignity” could face serious criminal charges, including treason.

The internet shutdown, which lasted almost six days, began on election day as reports of violence and alleged irregularities spread.

Dozens of people were reportedly killed in clashes between security forces and opposition supporters across major towns, according to rights groups.

While connectivity has started to return, social media platforms remain slow or partially restricted.

Residents say the blackout made it difficult to access reliable information or communicate with relatives in other regions.

“It has been hard to know what is really happening across the country because there was no internet,” *Asha, not her real name, a resident of Arusha, told Dawan Africa.

“Now it’s back, but very slow.”

Human rights organisations have condemned the government’s response, saying it violates the right to free expression and access to information.

Amnesty International said the blackout and violence were part of a wider attempt to silence critics and control the election narrative.

“Authorities must immediately lift all restrictions and ensure accountability for unlawful killings and other abuses,” Amnesty said in a statement.

The partial reopening of internet services is seen as a cautious step amid ongoing tensions.

The main opposition party, Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA), claimed that more than 800 people were killed in the post-election crackdown, including protesters and civilians caught in the crossfire.

Party leaders accused security forces of using live ammunition and arbitrary arrests to suppress demonstrations.

Local hospitals have also reported treating scores of people with gunshot wounds, while families continue to search for missing relatives.

The government has not released any official casualty figures and has dismissed the opposition’s claims as exaggerated.

International observers have urged President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government to guarantee transparency and respect for citizens’ rights in the aftermath of the elections.