Internet connectivity across Tanzania was severely disrupted on Wednesday as voters headed to the polls in general elections overshadowed by human rights concerns and opposition crackdowns. Netblocks, an internet access advocacy group, confirmed the nationwide outage via X, stating that live network data revealed a complete disruption shortly after users reported widespread slowdowns. The blackout occurred amid voting at polling stations nationwide, including long lines observed by Associated Press journalists at three locations where polls opened at 7 a.m. local time and were set to close at 4 p.m.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, seeking a second term, represents Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), the ruling party that has dominated Tanzanian politics since independence in 1961. CCM's long grip on power faces challenges from a tense pre-election environment, with Amnesty International documenting an atmosphere of fear marked by verified cases of enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and extrajudicial killings attributed to security forces. The rights group warned that these abuses seriously undermine the polls' legitimacy and called for accountability.

Opposition figures have been systematically targeted, amplifying fears of a lopsided contest. Tundu Lissu, leader of the main opposition CHADEMA party, remains imprisoned on treason charges after advocating for electoral reforms. The candidate from the second-largest opposition party was outright barred from running, leaving voters with limited choices.

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In semi-autonomous Zanzibar, images from the Mpendaye polling station showed orderly queues despite the national internet blackout, highlighting localised resilience amid broader restrictions.

Voting proceeded under tight security, with vote tallying to follow immediately after polls close. Preliminary results are anticipated within 24 hours, though the electoral commission has up to seven days for the final tally. Rights advocates and international observers urge transparency to restore faith in the process, as Tanzania navigates a pivotal moment that could extend CCM's six-decade rule or signal democratic progress.

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