A Tanzanian artist, Shadrack Chaula, has been sentenced to two years in prison or a $2,000 (£1,600) fine after being found guilty of cybercrimes for burning a photo of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Chaula, 24, recorded a viral video showing him burning the picture while verbally insulting the president, leading to his arrest.
Chaula admitted to the crime and did not defend his actions in court, sparking legal controversy as some lawyers argued that no law prohibits burning a picture. The incident has prompted a social media campaign to raise money for Chaula’s fine to secure his release.
Tough laws against spreading “fake news” were enacted in Tanzania in 2018, which critics claim suppress freedom of expression. Local police chief Benjamin Kuzaga cited Chaula’s use of “strong words” against the president in the video posted on TikTok from Ntokela village in Mbeya. Kuzaga stated that the offences included burning the president’s portrait and disseminating offensive content online, emphasizing that insulting national leaders is not part of the local culture.
Magistrate Shamla Shehagilo ruled that Chaula’s actions constituted cyber-harassment and incitement, finding him guilty of distributing false information on TikTok in violation of cyber laws. The prosecution urged a harsh penalty to deter disrespect towards the president.
The case has ignited a debate in Tanzania, with critics arguing the sentence is excessive and indicative of the government’s crackdown on dissent. While President Hassan, who assumed office in 2021, has introduced reforms to open political and civic spaces, the opposition and rights groups warn of a regression to restrictive policies.