Three of Tanzania’s top newspapers, The Citizen, Mwananchi, and Mwanaspoti, have been banned from publishing their online editions for 30 days after releasing an animation seen as critical of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The animation, which went viral before being removed, highlighted the growing number of abductions and disappearances in the country.
The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) stated that the content “threatens and is likely to harm national unity and social peace.”
The media outlets, operated by Mwananchi Communication Limited (MCL), had their online licenses suspended across all platforms, including social media and YouTube.
The controversial animation, posted by The Citizen on Tuesday, portrayed a female cartoon character resembling President Samia, wearing her distinctive hijab, flipping between TV channels, each showing people lamenting the abduction or disappearance of loved ones.
The character ultimately appeared disturbed by the complaints.
Mpoki Thomson, The Citizen’s managing editor, explained that the animation depicted real events that “raised concerns regarding the safety and security of individuals in Tanzania.”
He added that the decision to take it down came after the public misinterpreted the content’s intent.
In its Wednesday statement, the TCRA said the video violated Tanzania’s online communication laws, specifically the 2020 Electronic and Postal Communications (Online Content) Regulations.
The regulator announced, “Following the publication of content which contravenes the law, TCRA suspends online media services licenses for The Citizen, Mwananchi Digital, Mwananchi, and Mwanaspoti for 30 days,” while further actions are being considered.
Despite the ban, MCL has reassured readers it will continue to serve them through its print editions and plans to work with authorities to resolve the issue.
Rights groups and opposition leaders have condemned the suspension, viewing it as an effort to silence critical voices ahead of next year’s general elections.
This incident follows a pattern of government crackdowns on the media in Tanzania. In 2016 and 2017, four newspapers, Daima, Mawio, Mwanahalisi, and Mseto, were banned under the restrictive Media Services Act for exposing corruption and human rights abuses.
Although these bans were lifted after President Samia took office in 2021, hopes that her administration would offer greater press freedom appear to have dimmed.
Source-BBC
