Dar es Salaam – The Tanzanian government has fiercely rejected an investigation by the US news network CNN detailing lethal police violence and mass graves following the country’s disputed general election on October 29, 2025.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, November 23, Chief Government Spokesperson Gerson Msigwa dismissed the report as “one-sided” and a serious breach of journalistic ethics, further alleging it was part of an international campaign of “information warfare” designed to damage Tanzania’s burgeoning economy and tourism sector.
Mr Msigwa, in a comprehensive statement addressing the article, claimed the foreign broadcaster had failed to contact government officials for a response, thus producing a “slanderous” report.
He firmly asserted that authorities were available for comment and accused the CNN journalist of compiling the story remotely using “phone-captured pictures” rather than being on the ground in a major “ethical error.” He added that the government was ready to cooperate with any media wishing to publish a balanced account.
Mr Msigwa extended his critique to other major international broadcasters, including the BBC, Al Jazeera, and DW, accusing them of similarly publishing content intended to “incite hatred” among Tanzanians and create “turmoil” through “the weaponisation of narrative.”
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He directly linked these “negative” reports to attempts by commercial rivals to “pull down the economy of Tanzania,” referencing the country’s significant infrastructure advancements in rail, ports, and tourism.
The CNN investigation, based on geolocated video, forensic audio analysis, and witness accounts, had reported that police and armed men shot at largely unarmed protesters, leading to an unknown but potentially high number of civilian casualties.
The report included graphic evidence of morgues overflowing with bodies and satellite imagery consistent with reports of mass graves at the Kondo cemetery near Dar es Salaam.
Prior to the press conference, CNN correspondent Larry Madowo publicly contradicted the government’s claim of non-cooperation, stating the network was not invited to the official press conference and that prior requests for comment had gone unanswered.
The government’s strong condemnation follows President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s earlier acknowledgement of “some casualties” during the unrest, which occurred before she claimed a massive victory in the poll.
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In response to the violence, the Head of State initiated a three-month independent commission of inquiry, led by retired Chief Justice Mohammed Chande Othman, to investigate the events.
The government emphasised that all media should allow the commission to complete its work without interference. Mr Msigwa also took the opportunity to offer condolences to all families who had lost loved ones, including citizens and soldiers.
Despite the furore, Mr Msigwa sought to reassure the international community, stating: “Welcome to the United Republic of Tanzania. Our nation remains peaceful, calm, and open to all who wish to explore its beauty.”
He emphasised that the government is fully committed to protecting tourists and investors while urging local media to continue practising “Responsible Journalism” by prioritising national interests over foreign-led narratives.
