Paradigm Initiative (PIN) has thrown its support behind an ongoing constitutional case before the High Court of Tanzania challenging the restriction of access to the X platform, formerly known as Twitter, with a ruling expected on May 22, 2026.
The suit, filed in 2025 by Tanzanian lawyers Tito Elia Magoti and Kumbusho Dawson Kagine, is a public interest constitutional challenge against the Minister for Communications and Information Technology, the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA), and the Attorney General.
The applicants are seeking judicial intervention under the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Basic Rights and Duties Enforcement Act, arguing that the state’s actions restricting access to the social media platform violate constitutional protections.
Petitioners Cite Violations of Fundamental Rights
The case stems from restrictions imposed on May 20, 2025, which have continued to limit access to the X platform across Tanzania. Users have reportedly only been able to access the platform through the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), significantly affecting communication, access to information, and participation in digital civic spaces.
According to court filings, the applicants argue that the restriction contravenes Articles 18, 20, and 29 of the Constitution, which guarantee the rights to freedom of expression, access to information, and freedom of assembly.
The petitioners further contend that the measures were broad and disproportionate, implemented without public consultation, and lacked clear legal justification.
They also argue that the restriction has disrupted access to public health information, affected digital and media-related livelihoods, hindered journalistic activities, and weakened civic participation, particularly through the use of X Spaces for public discourse.
The applicants added that forcing citizens to rely on VPNs imposes additional financial and legal burdens while fragmenting communication within the country.
PIN Warns Against Excessive State Control of Digital Spaces
Backing the applicants’ position, Paradigm Initiative said restrictions of this nature undermine constitutional freedoms and could establish a dangerous precedent for state control over digital platforms.
“This case raises a fundamental question about the limits of state power in regulating digital platforms. Where restrictions are imposed, they must meet the constitutional thresholds of legality, necessity, and proportionality,” said ‘Gbenga Sesan, Executive Director of Paradigm Initiative.
He added, “Blanket disruptions of access to widely used platforms threaten not only freedom of expression but also the broader ecosystem of civic participation and access to information.”
Government Defends Restriction Measures
In their response, the respondents denied claims that the restriction of access to X in Tanzania constitutes a global concern. They maintained that the measures were implemented lawfully and were necessary to safeguard public safety, public health, and public morals.
The respondents also argued that the owner of the X platform was given prior notice to comply with Tanzanian laws and procedures before the restrictions were enforced. According to their filing, access to the platform was limited due to the owner’s alleged failure to comply with local regulatory requirements.
Ruling Expected May 22
The case remains pending before the High Court of Tanzania, with a determination expected on May 22, 2026.
Observers say the outcome could help define the constitutional boundaries of digital platform restrictions in Tanzania and may shape broader digital rights jurisprudence across Africa.
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