Tanzania Blocks Access to X Amid Rising Political Tensions
On Monday, May 20, 2025, authorities in Tanzania blocked access to the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) following a serious cyberattack that shook the nation’s top security agency. The official X account of the Tanzania Police Force (TANPOL) was hacked and used to post alarming false information, including a fake announcement of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s death.
Hacked and Hijacked
The breach stunned many as hackers took control of the police’s verified account, using it to spread misinformation that quickly gained traction. Live videos and coordinated posts falsely claimed that the president had passed away—claims that were immediately debunked but not before they went viral.
This digital chaos prompted the government to swiftly block access to X across the country. Monitoring organization NetBlocks confirmed the nationwide disruption, stating that X became inaccessible on all major internet providers, including Vodacom, Halotel, Airtel, Liquid Telecom, and Habari Node.
Silence and Suspicion
While the government has yet to release a full statement addressing the block, sources within Tanzania’s Ministry of Information claim the measure was taken to “protect national security and stop the spread of disinformation.” However, critics see it as a calculated move to tighten control over online spaces amid rising political tension.
Notably, this is not the first time Tanzania has restricted access to X. A similar shutdown occurred less than a year ago during a spike in opposition activity. Many fear the government is establishing a worrying pattern of digital suppression.
Political Tension on the Rise
The hack comes just days after the arrest of prominent opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who faces treason charges. His arrest triggered a wave of criticism from civil society, and several foreign activists—including Kenya’s Boniface Mwangi and Uganda’s Agather Atuhaire—were also detained after traveling to attend Lissu’s hearing. Their current whereabouts remain unknown.
These developments have fueled fears of a growing crackdown on dissent as Tanzania heads toward its next general elections.
VPNs to the Rescue
Despite the block, many Tanzanians have found ways around the restriction using VPNs (Virtual Private Networks). Digital rights groups have already started circulating tools and resources to help users maintain access to social media, calling the shutdown a violation of free speech and access to information.
What Next for Tanzania?
The repeated targeting of X raises deeper questions about the future of digital freedom in Tanzania. While governments have a right to protect national security, the lack of transparency around these shutdowns and their timing continues to draw suspicion.
