Internet Blackout Fuels Anger in Tanzania’s Capital
Tanzania experienced a near-total internet shutdown on Wednesday, coinciding with a highly contested election day and sparking widespread outrage in Dar es Salaam. The disruption has raised serious concerns about digital rights and government control over information access during critical periods. The blackout occurred amidst reports of escalating protests in several areas of the capital city.
Protests and Connectivity Disruption
As Tanzanians headed to the polls, reports emerged of significant unrest in Dar es Salaam. Residents in Kimara and Ubungo reportedly engaged in acts of protest, including setting a bus and a gas station ablaze. Further demonstrations were also reported in Magomeni, Kinondoni, and Tandale, suggesting a widespread expression of discontent. Simultaneously, internet connectivity across the nation was severely hampered. NetBlocks, an internet monitoring organization, confirmed a “nationwide interruption to Internet connectivity,” providing data that substantiated user complaints of slow speeds preceding the complete blackout. The US Embassy later issued a security alert further highlighting the tense environment.
The internet shutdown has fueled anger among Tanzanians, who view it as a deliberate attempt to stifle dissent and control the flow of information during a crucial election. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges to digital freedom and the potential for governments to use internet shutdowns as a tool to manage political events.
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