Tanzanian President John Magufuli’s administration has introduced new laws that restrict online content. The new rules have also illegalized organising, planning or even supporting any form of demonstration on the social media platform.
Maguli also banned Tanzanians from sharing information about covid-19 without the government’s permission. The Tanzanian head of state has downplayed the existence of the deadly virus that has brought to a partial halt.
Activists say the new legislations are archaic and infringing on people’s freedom of expression because they also make it possible for people to be prosecuted for what they write or post on messaging platforms like WhatsApp group.
Under the laws, the authorities have done away with rules governing hate speech on the basis of sexuality and gender.
Another rights groups say since President John Magufuli rose to the helmin 2015, his administration has cracked down on the media, civil society organisations and critics of his government.
The controversial leader acquired the name ‘bulldozer’ for the work he did as the minister for works under Ex President Jakaya Kikwete. He was later was hailed for his anti-corruption stance and his distinct dislike for events and programmes that waste public funds.
He changed to worse and now many Tanzanias feel his changes are a threat to freedom of expression and business.
