Tanzania warns against online misinformation after viral video criticising government
In the video, a man claiming to be Captain Tesha from the air force accuses President Samia Suluhu’s government of corruption, human rights abuses, and political interference within the military.
Tanzanian authorities have issued a stern warning against spreading misinformation on social media after a video of an alleged military officer criticising the government went viral—just weeks before the country’s October 27 general elections.
In the video, a man claiming to be Captain Tesha from the air force accuses President Samia Suluhu’s government of corruption, human rights abuses, and political interference within the military. He also calls on Chief of Defence Forces General Jacob Mkunda to “intervene and safeguard the rights of Tanzanians,” urging citizens to stand up for their rights and protest, claiming the security forces were “on their side.”
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While authorities have not confirmed the man’s identity or military status, Tanzanian police on Sunday denounced the video, warning that such actions threaten peace and public order.
“These criminal acts, motivated by evil intent, despite being against the laws of the country, have been causing fear and anxiety among the majority of good citizens without any basis in fact,” the police statement, issued in Swahili, roughly translates.
“These behaviours and actions should be condemned and fought against by anyone who recognises the importance and value of peace for their lives and their families.”
Arrest and prosecution
Police further cautioned that anyone involved in creating or circulating the video would face arrest and prosecution.
“The Police Force continues to assure Tanzanians that it will continue to search for and arrest them and bring them to other criminal justice authorities for legal action, as it has done for those who have already been arrested,” the statement continued.
“Those who are still continuing with the crime and have not been reached by the hand of the Law, should not deceive themselves but realise what awaits them.”
In a separate statement, military spokesperson Col Bernard Masala Mlunga appeared to refer to the viral clip, warning against attempts to politicise the army.
He said such claims often originate from individuals impersonating soldiers or from former officers expelled for indiscipline or political activity.
“The TPDF [Tanzania People’s Defence Force] continues to carry out its constitutional duties with integrity, loyalty, and professionalism, in full accordance with the [Tanzanian] laws,” he said, according to the BBC.
The warnings come amid a tense political atmosphere ahead of the October polls. The ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) is widely expected to retain power, while opposition leader Tundu Lissu remains in detention on treason charges.
His CHADEMA party has been barred from contesting after refusing to sign an electoral code of conduct—developments analysts say have tilted the race heavily in favour of President Suluhu, who is seeking another term.
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