Gen Z Protests Tanzania Lethal Force
- Tanzania has faced increasing scrutiny over its shrinking democratic space, marked by a crackdown on dissent and restrictions on freedom of the press.
- the protests gained momentum in 2023, with young Tanzanians utilizing social media to organize and voice their grievances.A key demand was a new constitution, arguing the current one...
- Central to the concerns about press freedom is the case of Erick Kabendera, a Tanzanian investigative journalist.
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Tanzania‘s Crackdown on Pro-Democracy Activism and the fate of Journalist Erick Kabendera
The Escalating Tension: Protests and Government Response
Tanzania has faced increasing scrutiny over its shrinking democratic space, marked by a crackdown on dissent and restrictions on freedom of the press. Recent protests, largely driven by Generation Z activists, have been met with a forceful response from the government, raising concerns about human rights violations. Thes demonstrations, often sparked by perceived economic hardship and political repression, have become a focal point of tension, particularly in the lead-up to and following the 2020 General Election.
the protests gained momentum in 2023, with young Tanzanians utilizing social media to organize and voice their grievances.A key demand was a new constitution, arguing the current one concentrates too much power in the executive branch. However, these demonstrations were met with police intervention, including arrests and, according to reports, the use of excessive force. the Wall Street Journal reported on the increasing power of Gen Z protests and the government’s forceful response, including allegations of lethal force.
The Case of Erick Kabendera: A Journalist Silenced
Central to the concerns about press freedom is the case of Erick Kabendera, a Tanzanian investigative journalist. Kabendera was arrested on September 29, 2019, and initially charged with sedition, money laundering, and tax evasion. The committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) detailed his arrest and the charges against him, highlighting concerns about politically motivated prosecution.
The charges were later dropped, but Kabendera faced further legal battles and restrictions. He was eventually convicted in February 2023 on charges of aiding and abetting tax evasion, and sentenced to three years in prison. Human Rights Watch condemned the verdict, stating it was based on a flawed inquiry and politically motivated. Kabendera was released on parole in november 2023 after serving approximately four years.
Broader Context: Political Climate and Restrictions on Freedom
Kabendera’s case is not isolated. Under the presidency of John Magufuli (2015-2021),Tanzania witnessed a significant deterioration in press freedom and human rights.Laws were enacted that restricted freedom of expression, and journalists faced harassment, intimidation, and arbitrary arrests. The Online Media Content Act of 2018, for example, required bloggers and online media outlets to register with the government and pay hefty licensing fees, effectively stifling autonomous online journalism. Article 19 provides a comprehensive overview of the restrictions on freedom of expression in Tanzania.
While Samia Suluhu Hassan assumed the presidency in march 2021 following Magufuli’s death, promising a more open and democratic approach, concerns remain about the pace of reforms. even though some political prisoners have been released and restrictions on the media have been eased, the legal framework that enables repression remains largely in place. The government has also been criticized for its continued surveillance of citizens and its crackdown on opposition parties.