Tanzania’s Elections: A Warning Sign for Digital Democracy in Africa
A staggering 97.66% victory for incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan in Tanzania’s recent elections has been overshadowed by reports of lethal force used against protestors, widespread internet shutdowns, and a chilling suppression of media freedom. This isn’t simply a post-election dispute; it’s a stark illustration of a growing trend: the erosion of democratic processes through both physical repression and digital control, a pattern that threatens stability across the African continent.
The Anatomy of a Contested Election
Following the October 29th elections, protests erupted in Dar es Salaam and other cities, fueled by allegations of irregularities and a lack of transparency. The response from Tanzanian authorities, documented by Human Rights Watch, was swift and brutal. Tear gas, live ammunition, and a complete nationwide internet blackout were deployed, effectively silencing dissent and hindering independent reporting. While internet access has partially been restored, restrictions on social media and messaging platforms remain in place, limiting citizens’ ability to organize and share information.
Beyond the Ballot Box: A Pattern of Repression
This election didn’t occur in a vacuum. Human Rights Watch’s prior reporting highlights a sustained campaign of political repression in Tanzania, targeting opposition parties like Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (Chadema), stifling critical voices, and undermining the independence of the electoral commission. The opposition’s call for a boycott underscores a deep-seated lack of faith in the electoral process. Reports of up to 1,000 fatalities following the election, though unconfirmed, raise serious concerns and demand independent investigation. The alleged killing of a Dar es Salaam resident, not even participating in protests, by individuals in civilian clothes, points to a disturbing level of impunity.
The Digital Iron Curtain: Internet Shutdowns as a Tool of Control
The internet shutdown in Tanzania is particularly alarming. It’s a tactic increasingly employed by governments globally to suppress dissent, control narratives, and prevent the organization of protests. As Access Now details in their Shutdown Tracker, internet shutdowns are becoming more frequent and sophisticated, often coinciding with elections or periods of political unrest. This isn’t just about limiting access to social media; it disrupts essential services, hinders economic activity, and violates fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression and access to information, as enshrined in the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
The Impact on Journalism and Accountability
The lockdown and restrictions on accreditation severely hampered the ability of both local and foreign journalists to report on the unfolding events. This created a vacuum of information, allowing the government to control the narrative and limit scrutiny. The denial of access to journalists, even those with accreditation, is a clear violation of press freedom and a worrying sign for the future of independent journalism in Tanzania. Without a free press, accountability becomes nearly impossible.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Digital Democracy in Africa
Tanzania’s experience serves as a cautionary tale for other African nations. The convergence of physical repression and digital control represents a dangerous trend that could undermine democratic progress across the continent. We can anticipate several key developments:
- Increased Sophistication of Digital Control: Governments will likely invest in more advanced technologies to monitor online activity, censor content, and disrupt internet access.
- Rise of “Splinternet” Scenarios: We may see the emergence of fragmented internet landscapes, with governments creating their own controlled online ecosystems.
- Greater Emphasis on Cybersecurity Laws: Cybersecurity laws, often framed as measures to combat crime and terrorism, will increasingly be used to justify restrictions on online freedom of expression.
- Increased Regional and International Pressure: Organizations like the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the Southern African Development Community, and the United Nations will face growing pressure to address the issue of digital repression in Africa.
The international community must hold the Tanzanian government accountable for its actions and demand an end to the use of excessive force, the restoration of internet access, and a thorough investigation into allegations of human rights abuses. More broadly, supporting independent media, promoting digital literacy, and advocating for policies that protect online freedoms are crucial steps in safeguarding democracy in the digital age. What steps can civil society organizations take to counter these trends and ensure a free and open internet for all Tanzanians? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
