REFERENCE NO. 56 OF 2025 LEGAL & HUMAN RIGHTS CENTRE v. THE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE UNITED REPUBLIC OF TANZANIA

The Applicant alleges that the Respondent’s actions from 29 October 2025 to 4 November 2025 of executing a total, nationwide internet shutdown are unlawful infringements on Articles 6(d), 7(2), and 8(1)(c) of The Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community, as well as the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. The Applicant specifically contends that by disrupting access to mobile data, websites, and online platforms without public notice or lawful authorization, the Respondent paralyzed economic, social, and civic life including essential services such as banking, health, and education and restricted the fundamental rights of citizens to freedom of expression and access to information during a critical general election period.