Old and unrelated images misrepresent unrest during Tanzania’s general election

Old and Unrelated Images Misrepresent Unrest During Tanzania’s General Election

In October 2025, Tanzanians voted in a general election tightly controlled by President Samia Suluhu Hassan's government. The process took place amid a nationwide internet blackout that severely restricted communication and information sharing.

During this period, social media platforms were inundated with images and videos allegedly depicting protests in Tanzania. However, investigations later confirmed that these visuals were old and unrelated to the election events.

Opposition Suppression and Electoral Restrictions

Leading up to the vote, opposition parties faced significant barriers. Key figures were detained or disqualified, leaving the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) with near-total dominance.

Tundu Lissu, leader of the main opposition party Chadema, was arrested in April on treason charges after advocating for electoral reform. His party was later banned from participating.
Luhaga Mpina of the Alliance for Change and Transparency (ACT Wazalendo), the third-largest political party, was also barred from contesting.

Election Day and Aftermath

On election day, the government imposed an internet shutdown that blocked access to social media and messaging applications nationwide, effectively silencing public discourse.

Following the announcement of results, unrest spread in several districts of Dar es Salaam. Authorities imposed a curfew and deployed additional security forces to restore order.

“Although unrest has since spread, the images in question are old and unrelated to the election.”

Author’s summary: The Tanzanian 2025 election was marked by censorship, suppression of opposition, and widespread misinformation fueled by outdated images shared online.

AFP Fact Check — 2025-11-05