Tanzania Blocks X Over P0rnograph!c Content, Says Minister

Tanzania has officially blocked access to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), citing concerns over the sharing of pornographic content, which authorities say violates the country’s laws, culture, and online ethics guidelines.

Information Minister Jerry Silaa confirmed the government’s move in a recent interview with local television, saying X had failed to comply with the country’s standards by allowing explicit and same-sex adult content. He added that the decision is part of a broader digital policy to protect Tanzanian users.

Despite the ban, government officials and public institutions continue to use X, which rights group Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) called “a troubling inconsistency” that “confuses the public and undermines the government’s credibility.”

LHRC and other digital rights advocates have criticized the move as part of a pattern of digital repression, especially ahead of Tanzania’s October presidential and parliamentary elections. They noted a similar restriction of X before the 2020 polls.

Meanwhile, other platforms such as Telegram and Clubhouse are also reportedly inaccessible without VPNs.

The digital crackdown comes amid rising political tension following the arrest of opposition leader Tundu Lissu on treason charges. His detention has sparked regional concern, especially after allegations of abuse surfaced from Kenyan and Ugandan activists who were detained while showing solidarity.

Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have demanded independent investigations into the alleged sexual abuse and mistreatment of the detained activists.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who came to power in 2021, is now facing growing scrutiny for what critics describe as a return to authoritarianism, similar to her predecessor, the late John Magufuli.

The government maintains that Tanzania remains a stable democracy and promises a free and fair election in October.

BBC