Tanzanian activist based in the US accuses government of Instagram ban

Mange Kimambi, a Tanzanian activist living in the United States, has alleged that her social media accounts were deliberately removed due to government pressure. Kimambi, a former fashion model turned activist, had used her platforms to rally Tanzanians critical of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. At the time of the ban, her Instagram following was nearly three million.

Kimambi has faced accusations of provoking deadly protests following recent elections, leading to calls for her arrest. A Meta spokesperson stated that her Instagram accounts were "removed for violating our recidivism policy," noting that new accounts similar to previously removed ones cannot be created.

The Tanzanian government, represented by spokesman Gerson Msigwa, responded by urging Kimambi to provide evidence for her claims. Last month, Attorney-General Hamza Johari questioned how someone outside the country could influence domestic events via social media, stating, "[She is] directing protests from abroad and then boasting about it. We must arrest her."

The controversial October 29 elections, which saw President Samia win with around 98% of the vote, were marred by the exclusion of key opposition figures. Tundu Lissu is detained on treason charges, and Luhaga Mpina was barred on technical grounds. Human rights organizations report hundreds of deaths in the crackdown following the elections, though official figures remain undisclosed. Despite international criticism, Samia has defended the security forces actions as necessary to prevent an attempted government overthrow and has vowed to confront further planned protests.

Kimambi, known as dada wa taifa ("sister of the nation"), has consistently promoted peaceful demonstrations as a means for Tanzanians to voice dissent. Her activism began during John Magufuli's presidency in 2016, and she initially supported President Samia in 2021. The relationship later soured, with Kimambi now openly criticizing the administration.

She currently faces charges in Tanzania, including economic sabotage and money laundering connected to a $56,000 sum allegedly obtained three years ago. Kimambi dismisses these accusations as politically motivated and claims her bank account, linked to the charges, was frozen in 2023. She continues to encourage Tanzanians to participate in upcoming protests, including one scheduled for December 9, sharing images from the post-election unrest.

The US has expressed growing concern over Tanzanias human rights record and democratic backsliding, warning that the countrys actions could affect bilateral relations, US citizens, and American investments. A recent statement from the Department of State cited restrictions on free speech, religious freedom, and investor access, emphasizing that future cooperation will depend on the Tanzanian governments conduct.

Author: Ava Mitchell