Tanzanian Activist Claims Government Suppressed Her Social Media Accounts
A prominent Tanzanian activist, Mange Kimambi, has alleged that the Tanzanian government orchestrated the removal of her social media accounts, a critical platform she used to rally opposition against the government. With nearly three million Instagram followers, Kimambi, who resides in the U.S., has been an outspoken critic of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, particularly following controversial elections that led to widespread protests.
Why It Matters
The silencing of Kimambi’s accounts reflects broader concerns regarding freedom of expression in Tanzania. With allegations of governmental repression and human rights abuses heightened since the October elections, her case underscores the challenges activists face in mobilizing dissent and the implications for democratic processes in the country.
Key Developments
- Kimambi’s Instagram accounts were removed under Meta’s recidivism policy, prompting accusations of governmental pressure to silence dissent.
- Tanzania’s Attorney-General stated that it is "impossible" for someone residing outside the country to direct protests within Tanzania.
- Widespread protests erupted following the disputed October 29 elections, which saw Samia winning with about 98% of the vote amid opposition disqualification.
- Kimambi asserts her accounts’ removal coincided with restrictions placed on another activist’s accounts, indicating a systematic effort to stifle dissent.
- The U.S. State Department is reviewing its relationship with Tanzania due to concerns over democratic decline and human rights violations.
- Kimambi currently faces legal charges in Tanzania, including economic sabotage, which she contends are politically motivated.
Full Report
Government’s Response
A spokesperson for Meta stated that Kimambi’s accounts were removed for violating its policies against repeat offenders, leaving room for interpretation about whether governmental pressure influenced this decision. Tanzanian government spokesman Gerson Msigwa has called for Kimambi to substantiate her claims, suggesting that her content could incite unrest.
Allegations of Repression
Following the October elections, numerous protests erupted across Tanzania, leading to accusations that the government engaged in excessive force to suppress dissent. While the opposition contends that hundreds died in the crackdown, the government has not disclosed any casualty figures. President Samia has defended the use of force, framing it as a necessary action against threats to her administration.
Activist’s Statements
In her public statements, Kimambi has urged Tanzanians to resist the government and protested their lack of safe avenues to voice dissent. She has also reached out to U.S. officials, including former President Donald Trump, for support in reinstating her accounts. Kimambi argues that her activism has consistently promoted peaceful protests.
Legal Troubles
Currently, Kimambi is entangled in legal challenges back in Tanzania, facing charges of economic sabotage and money laundering. She has publicly dismissed these accusations as unfounded and politically motivated, asserting that the charges stem from her activism.
Context & Previous Events
Mange Kimambi, known popularly as "dada wa taifa" (sister of the nation), has utilized social media to influence Tanzanian politics since 2016, initially attempting to organize protests against former President John Magufuli’s regime. While she initially supported President Samia after her ascension, their relationship soured as Kimambi increasingly criticized her administration, leading to her present legal and social media challenges.
As the political climate in Tanzania continues to evolve, the implications of Kimambi’s situation may resonate far beyond the country’s borders, affecting international perceptions and commitments to human rights and democratic standards.
