Citizens Urged to Combat Fake News Following 2025 Election Unrest

In an era where digital misinformation can rapidly fuel social division, Tanzanian officials and media experts are calling on citizens to exercise greater vigilance against fake news, particularly as the nation recovers from post-election violence that occurred in late 2025.

Political analyst Hamidini Maliseli emphasized the critical importance of distinguishing between factual reporting and malicious propaganda during this period of national healing. “Propaganda can be either positive or negative. It is vital to subscribe to positive propaganda that promotes peace rather than chaos,” Maliseli told the Daily News in a recent interview.

The aftermath of Tanzania’s October 29, 2025 general election serves as a stark example of how misinformation can destabilize a country. Social media influencers allegedly mobilized citizens to protest the democratic process, contributing to widespread unrest that resulted in loss of life, property damage, and the implementation of curfews across affected regions.

“The rapid advancements in technology, especially Artificial Intelligence, have enabled some digital influencers to create fictional characters or deepfakes that manipulate public opinion and escalate tensions,” Maliseli explained. Deepfake technology, which uses AI to manipulate video and audio content, has become increasingly sophisticated, making it difficult for ordinary citizens to identify manipulated media.

Authorities are taking the threat seriously. An Independent Commission of Inquiry, led by retired Chief Justice Mohamed Chande Othman, has been established to investigate the root causes of the October unrest. The commission’s report, expected in April 2026, aims to outline necessary reforms to prevent similar incidents and promote peaceful coexistence.

Local government officials have joined the call for responsible information sharing. Edward Mpogolo, Ilala District Commissioner, specifically urged young people to refrain from spreading unverified news. “It is important for us, especially as youth, to ensure we are using information responsibly and not sharing news that is unfounded,” he said, while calling on the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) to take stronger action against creators and distributors of fake news and hate speech.

Media professionals are also weighing in on the crisis. Nuzulack Dausen, CEO of fact-checking firm Nukta Africa, highlighted how malicious actors often use templates that mimic legitimate news outlets to deceive readers. “Everyone should develop the ability to spot fake news,” Dausen advised, recommending that local media organizations establish dedicated fact-checking units similar to those at international outlets like the BBC and Deutsche Welle.

Edwin Soko, Chairperson of the Media Institute of Southern Africa-Tanzania Chapter (MISATAN), emphasized that combating information disorders requires a multi-faceted approach. “Citizen journalism, often fuelled by AI, is a growing concern. We must focus on educating the public about the importance of relying on verified, real-time information from mainstream media,” Soko said.

The proliferation of misinformation poses particular dangers in politically sensitive periods. When false information targets government leaders or institutions, it can erode public trust in legal systems and democratic processes. Media experts note that social media platforms, with their rapid sharing capabilities, often serve as primary vectors for dangerous misinformation.

As Tanzania works to rebuild national unity following the 2025 election violence, officials are reminding citizens of their constitutional responsibility to protect the country’s peace and stability. The upcoming commission report is expected to provide a framework for reforms that will strengthen Tanzania’s resilience against the destabilizing effects of digital misinformation.