Tanzania has suspended the online operations of a prominent newspaper following the release of controversial cartoons featuring President Samia Suluhu Hassan and alluding to recent abductions and killings of dissidents.
One of the animated videos, published by The Citizen earlier this week, depicted President Hassan watching news reports about dissidents and victims of state repression.
President Hassan has been under scrutiny both domestically and internationally for allegations that the security forces are involved in the abduction and murder of opposition figures.
Her administration has prohibited two major rallies by the opposition Chadema party since August, leading to the brief detention of its leaders.
The Citizen, known for its influence as an English-language publication, announced on Wednesday that its online content has been suspended for a period of 30 days.
This decision was made by the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority, which deemed the animated clips to be presenting “negative interpretations for the nation, something that affects and undermines national unity, peace, and cohesion”.
The newspaper has since removed the animations, citing “the misinterpretation it has generated” in a separate statement.
President Hassan assumed office following the sudden passing of her authoritarian predecessor, John Magufuli, in 2021. Initially praised for lifting restrictions on opposition rallies and the media, she has faced criticism from rights groups and Western governments, including the United States, for what is perceived as increased repression ahead of upcoming elections.
One of the individuals featured in the animated videos is the father of artist Shadrack Chaula, who was sentenced to two years in July for burning a picture of President Hassan.
In the video, the father is heard saying “dead or alive… I want to see my child”, while President Hassan watches from a sofa.
Published – October 03, 2024 09:46 pm IST
