Tanzania Suspends The Citizen Newspaper's Online Operations

Tanzania has suspended the online operations of The Citizen, a leading newspaper, for 30 days following the release of animated clips featuring President Samia Suluhu Hassan that referenced recent abductions and killings of dissidents. The animations depicted the president watching news coverage on state repression, which has led to significant domestic and international backlash amid allegations of security forces' involvement in opposition figure disappearances. The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority stated that the content threatened national unity and social peace. In response, The Citizen removed the clips, citing concerns over misinterpretation. Hassan, who took office in 2021, faces increasing criticism for her government's crackdown on opposition activities, including banning rallies and detaining leaders. Rights groups and Western governments have expressed alarm over what they perceive as a resurgence of repression ahead of upcoming elections.