Tanzania restricts access to X after cyberattack targets government, sparks political tension
Access to the social media platform X has been blocked in much of Tanzania following a major cyberattack that compromised several high-profile government and private accounts — including the Tanzanian Police Force’s official X account.
The hack, which occurred on Tuesday, May 20, led to the posting of explicit content and false claims suggesting that President Samia Suluhu Hassan had died — a claim the police quickly denied.
“An investigation is underway to identify those behind the attack,” police authorities confirmed.
According to NetBlocks, an internet monitoring group, X became “unreachable on major internet providers” across the country shortly after the hack. By Wednesday, May 21, users in Dar es Salaam still couldn’t access the platform, though some in other areas reported limited access.
In parliament, Information Minister Jerry Silaa acknowledged the cyberattack, saying that the government had secured the affected accounts. Government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa also warned that swift action would be taken against those responsible.
Political tension rises amid crackdown
The restriction of X comes amid growing political tension in Tanzania. Just days earlier, the government deported several Kenyan public figures, including former Justice Minister Martha Karua, who had arrived to support opposition leader Tundu Lissu. Lissu is currently facing treason charges in a high-profile court case.
On Monday, May 19, President Samia Suluhu Hassan spoke publicly about the incident, warning that she would not allow foreign activists to meddle in the country’s internal affairs or incite unrest.
The events mark a volatile moment for Tanzania, where digital freedom, political opposition, and national security are now at the center of intense public and governmental scrutiny.
