The Tanzanian government’s nationwide internet and electricity shutdown is deeply concerning, especially as it suggests that human rights abuses can occur without accountability.

Development Diaries reports that this is the third time in less than a year that Tanzanian authorities have resorted to an internet blockade to silence dissenting voices.

According to a report by Amnesty International, for almost a week, millions of Tanzanians have faced restricted access to communication and essential services, a move that limits freedom of expression and disrupts economic and social life.

Reports of security forces using excessive force during post-election protests, resulting in deaths and injuries, show a growing pattern of state repression.

This situation reflects a worrying disregard for the rule of law and citizens’ constitutional rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and access to information.

It is essential to note that such actions violate Article 18 of Tanzania’s Constitution, which guarantees the right to seek, receive, and impart information, as well as Article 20, which protects the right to peaceful assembly.

They also breach regional and international obligations under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

The blackout has made it difficult for citizens, journalists, and human rights groups to document election-related abuses, allowing violations to go unchecked.

Further worrying is the use of excessive force by security agencies, including the police and military, during protests.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan needs to take immediate steps to restore internet access nationwide and ensure citizens’ rights to free expression and peaceful assembly.

The authorities also need to release all those detained for protesting peacefully and launch an independent investigation into the reported killings and injuries.

Photo source: Reuters