Access to the social media platform X has been limited in Tanzania after malicious hackers targeted several government and private institution accounts. The police reported that their official account was hijacked, leading to posts that spread false rumors, including an announcement of the president’s death. In response, the police have launched a criminal investigation to track down the hackers responsible.
As a result of the incident, data from monitoring organization Netblocks indicated that X became "unreachable on major internet providers" throughout Tanzania. Many users in Dar es Salaam, the largest city, found themselves unable to access the platform unless they used illegal virtual private networks (VPNs). Official comments regarding the restriction on X have yet to be made by the authorities.
Tanzania’s Information Minister, Jerry Silaa, confirmed the hacking incident and assured lawmakers that affected government accounts have been secured. Furthermore, government spokesman Gerson Msigwa warned that those behind the cybercrimes would face swift consequences.
This incident coincides with rising tensions over the deportation of several Kenyan activists, who were banned from attending a court case involving opposition leader Tundu Lissu. The president has taken a firm stance, asserting her intent to safeguard Tanzania's sovereignty against foreign interference.
Reports have emerged about the arrest and possible detention of two prominent activists, Boniface Mwangi and Agather Atuhaire, which has raised further alarm. The president of the Tanganyika Law Society, which advocates for legal rights in mainland Tanzania, said their legal team is monitoring the situation closely, looking for ways to ensure justice.
The government’s crackdown on social media access and actions against activists signal increasing scrutiny over dissent and online discourse in Tanzania. Stay tuned for updates!
