Tanzania’s Cyber Crime Bill Gives More Power to Police, Less to People

Nairobi, Kenya - A Move That Raises Concerns Among Rights Groups

In a move that has sparked concerns among rights groups, Tanzania’s President John Magufuli has signed into law the country’s long-awaited cybercrime bill. The legislation grants sweeping powers to the police and surveillance agencies, while restricting citizens’ online freedoms.

Key Provisions of the Cybercrimes Act

• Allows police to intercept communications, monitor internet activities, and demand user data from service providers without a warrant.
• Grants the Minister responsible for information and communication technology the power to require service providers to inform authorities of alleged illegal activities and provide customer identity information upon request.

Rights Groups Vow to Challenge the Law

Rights groups have vowed to challenge the law in court, citing violations of Tanzania’s Constitution and international human rights standards. They argue that the law will empower the government to suppress dissenting voices online and infringe on citizens’ right to privacy.

• “The Cybercrimes Act is a threat to freedom of expression and assembly in Tanzania,” said Maria Sarungi-Tsehai, executive director of the Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition.
• “It gives the government unchecked powers to monitor and censor online content, which will have a chilling effect on free speech.”

Criminalization of Certain Online Activities

The law criminalizes certain online activities, such as hacking, cyberstalking, and spreading false information. However, critics say it is overly broad and could be used to target political opponents or critics of the government.

• “The Tanzanian government should repeal this flawed law and adopt a more nuanced approach that balances national security concerns with the protection of human rights,” said Deprose Muchena, Amnesty International’s director for East and Southern Africa.

Broader Trend in Africa

Tanzania’s Cybercrimes Act is seen as part of a broader trend of governments in Africa using cybercrime legislation to crack down on online dissent and restrict human rights.