The Tanzanian government has warned citizens not to post or share photos and videos that could “cause panic” as the country’s internet slowly returns after a six-day shutdown following violent election protests.
Mobile users received text messages on Monday night cautioning that anyone sharing disturbing or misleading images could face treason charges. The warning came just hours after internet access was restored and unverified pictures of bodies allegedly linked to the protests began circulating online.
Authorities have not yet released an official death toll. However, President Samia Suluhu Hassan acknowledged during her Monday swearing-in ceremony that there had been “loss of life” and called on security forces to restore order.
The main opposition party, Chadema, claims that over 1,000 people have died in the unrest, while the Catholic Church said deaths were in the “hundreds,” though neither group could confirm exact figures. Human Rights Watch condemned the government’s response, describing it as “violent and repressive” and urging accountability for the deaths.
The protests began on election day, October 29, after opposition candidates were barred from contesting. President Hassan was declared the winner with more than 97% of the vote amid reports of low voter turnout. Demonstrations erupted in several cities, with security forces using live ammunition and tear gas to disperse crowds. A nationwide curfew was imposed shortly after.
By Tuesday, normal life was gradually resuming in Dar es Salaam and Dodoma, as shops reopened and public transport services returned. Government workers were also instructed to resume duties, ending the work-from-home directive issued during the curfew.
Human Rights Watch has urged the Tanzanian government to fully restore internet access and uphold citizens’ rights to free expression and information.