Meta confirmed blocking Instagram accounts belonging to Tanzanian activists Maria Sarungi-Tsehai and Mange Kimambi. This action followed a legal order from Tanzanian regulators, despite Meta’s stated belief in freedom of expression. Kimambi was also banned from WhatsApp for rule violations.
These restrictions align with increased government repression since Tanzania’s controversial October 29 election, won by President Samia Suluhu Hassan. The poll, condemned by observers, included an internet shutdown and severe crackdown, with CNN reporting fatal shootings and mass graves.