Tanzanian authorities are seeking to arrest outspoken U.S.-based activist Mange Kimambi, following her viral social media posts accusing the government of orchestrating brutal violence during the recent elections.
President Samia Suluhu claimed victory in the October 29 polls with a staggering 98 percent of the vote—an outcome that international observers and opposition groups have condemned as fraudulent. Election day descended into chaos, with mass protests erupting across the country amid a government-imposed internet blackout.
From abroad, Kimambi flooded her platforms with disturbing videos and photos allegedly showing victims of police and militia brutality. The posts feature bodies with gunshot wounds, blood-soaked hospital floors, and armed men in civilian clothes, images that analysts say appear to have been filmed in Tanzania.
Opposition party Chadema alleges that over 800 people were killed, a number echoed by some diplomatic sources. Officials have not confirmed any figures, instead focusing on silencing what they call “false content.”
Attorney General Hamza Johari has vowed to pursue Kimambi, even exploring whether an extradition request could be filed with the U.S.
Kimambi hit back online, calling the move “laughable” and accusing the government of chasing activists instead of murderers.
Meanwhile, Tanzanian police have warned citizens against sharing “panic-inducing” images, as reports emerge of increased surveillance on social media accounts. Critics say the crackdown reflects a desperate bid to suppress dissent and control the post-election narrative.
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