DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania: Tanzania suspended the online operations of The Citizen, a leading newspaper, after it released animated advertising clips involving President Samia Suluhu Hassan and referencing recent abductions and killings of dissidents.
The videos portrayed the president watching news clips about state repression, leading to domestic and international backlash.
The newspaper removed the ads, citing concerns over their misinterpretation. The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority imposed a 30-day suspension on the publication’s online operations.
READ ALSO: Eight Israeli Soldiers Killed During Clashes with Hezbollah
Hassan, initially praised for easing restrictions on opposition and media after taking office in 2021, now faces criticism over renewed repression, with two opposition rallies banned since August and rising concerns ahead of upcoming elections.
