The Tanzanian government has suspended the online operations of a prominent newspaper publisher following the release of an animated advertisement that portrayed President Samia Suluhu Hassan in connection with recent abductions and murders of political dissidents.
The animated advert, released on social media platforms X and Instagram by The Citizen, depicted a character resembling the president flipping through television channels, each displaying individuals discussing loved ones who had disappeared.
In a statement issued on Wednesday evening, the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) announced the suspension of Mwananchi Communications, which publishes The Citizen and other newspapers, for 30 days while further regulatory measures are considered.
The TCRA asserted that the content in question “threatens and is likely to affect national unity and social peace.”
Despite the suspension, The Citizen plans to continue publishing its print editions while seeking dialogue with the regulatory authority.
Managing editor Mpoki Thomson commented that the animation had been retracted due to the “misinterpretation it has generated.”Human rights lawyer Tito Magoti criticized the suspension as an act of “retaliation against press freedom,” asserting that it aims to stifle critical journalism within the country.
“The TCRA is attempting to control journalistic practices, which is not the appropriate form of oversight,” he stated.
The one-minute animated clip featured six individuals, including Tundu Lissu, the opposition leader from the Chadema party, expressing their grief and concern over the ongoing violence and disappearances.
One character lamented, “The political situation in our country is dire. We are in mourning. Our leader has been violently kidnapped and murdered,” referencing the recent death of Ali Mohamed Kibao, a Chadema member found dead last month with acid burns after being abducted by armed men.
Another character reflected, “Every time I think of my child, I can only cry. I’m overwhelmed with frustration. It’s been a long time, yet the memories linger painfully.”
President Hassan has encountered increasing criticism, both domestically and internationally, regarding allegations that security forces are involved in the kidnappings and murders of opposition figures.
Recently, the government has prohibited two rallies organized by Chadema and detained its leaders and supporters.
Assuming office after the abrupt death of the authoritarian leader John Magufuli in 2021, Hassan was initially praised for easing restrictions on opposition rallies and the media.
However, observers and human rights organizations indicate that she is reverting to the censorship and oppressive tactics employed by her predecessor.
Oryem Nyeko, a Tanzania researcher at Human Rights Watch, noted, “It appears that she [Hassan] is following the Magufuli playbook by censoring the media and detaining opposition members, all because individuals are voicing concerns about significant issues. This creates a troubling atmosphere.”