TCRA warns against unlawful online content ahead of polls

Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has issued a stern warning to digital content providers, telecom operators, and short message aggregators, cautioning that strict legal action will be taken against those distributing unlicensed or unlawful content ahead of the 2025 General Election.

In a statement issued yesterday, TCRA director general, Dr Jabiri Bakari, outlined measures to ensure accurate information reaches the public, while safeguarding peace and national unity throughout the election period.

The warning comes just ten days before the official campaign period begins ahead of the October general polls, underscoring the regulator’s resolve to monitor pre-election communication closely.

Dr Bakari urged all stakeholders to ensure that content shared with citizens fosters unity and cohesion. He stressed that online publishers without a TCRA license would be violating the Electronic and Postal Communications Act (EPOCA) of 2010, the Online Content Regulations of 2020, and their 2022 amendments.

“Anyone involved in providing such services without a licence will face strict legal action, including prosecution,” he said.

TCRA reaffirmed its mandate in regulating mobile and internet communications, postal services, and the broadcasting of radio, television, and online content.

The authority has been closely monitoring online behaviour under the powers granted by EPOCA.

Dr Bakari also reminded telecom service providers and SMS aggregators that all bulk messages distributed before, during, and after the 2025 elections must comply with communication laws and regulations.

He added that all content must be verified before circulation to prevent the spread of violence-inciting messages, disinformation, or content disturbing public order.

Furthermore, election-related content must be cleared by the relevant institutions or political party leadership before distribution.

Service providers are also required to keep records of all bulk messages for the legally stipulated period to enable verification when necessary.