by Gloria Nosa
Tanzania has temporarily blocked access to X (formerly known as Twitter) following a wave of false reports circulating on the platform that falsely claimed President Samia Suluhu Hassan had died. The government says the decision was made to curb panic, restore order, and investigate the origin of the viral misinformation.
The rumor, which began trending early Monday morning, spread rapidly across X, prompting widespread concern among citizens both within Tanzania and abroad. Several posts falsely claimed that the president had collapsed during a cabinet meeting and subsequently passed away. The posts included doctored images and unverified “breaking news” banners, adding to the confusion.
In a press statement issued by the Ministry of Information, Communication and Information Technology, the government condemned the misinformation as “irresponsible, dangerous, and a threat to national stability.” The ministry said the shutdown was a “necessary step” to prevent further dissemination of falsehoods while investigations are underway.
“The President is alive, well, and continues to carry out her duties. We urge citizens to rely on official government sources for accurate information,” the statement read.
Human rights groups and digital rights advocates have expressed concern over the shutdown, calling it an overreach that limits freedom of expression and access to information. Access Now, a global digital rights group, described the move as “a disproportionate response that punishes millions of users for the actions of a few.”
This incident has reignited debate over the Tanzanian government’s relationship with social media. Under previous administrations, digital platforms have faced sporadic restrictions, especially during politically sensitive periods. Critics argue that rather than shutting down platforms, the government should invest in stronger digital literacy campaigns and more transparent communication strategies.
Meanwhile, Tanzanians turned to other platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Telegram to seek clarity and voice their frustration over the blockade. Hashtags such as #TanzaniaShutdown and #WeNeedAccess trended in regional networks, highlighting growing tension between the state and online communities.
At press time, X remains inaccessible via most internet service providers in Tanzania, although some users report access through virtual private networks (VPNs). The government has not specified when the ban will be lifted, but authorities insist the measure is temporary.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan made a brief public appearance later in the day, attending an official function in Dodoma and waving to cheering supporters. Her presence effectively quelled the rumors, but the fallout from the false news incident continues to ripple through the nation’s digital and political space.
