Tanzanian music star Diamond Platnumz   has deleted all recent videos from his social media platforms, including Instagram, where he had publicly supported President   Samia Suluhu Hassan   and the ruling   CCM Party. The now-removed content included clips of performances from President Suluhu’s campaign rallies and CCM Party tours. The move comes as   Tanzania faces growing political unrest, marked by anti-government protests, internet shutdowns, and a tightening crackdown on opposition voices.

President Suluhu’s administration has faced mounting criticism for what rights groups describe as a   shrinking democratic space, citing   arbitrary arrests, disappearances, and intimidation   of opposition figures. The unrest has prompted authorities to impose an   indefinite dusk-to-dawn curfew in Dar es Salaam, leaving millions disconnected from the internet.

Diamond Platnumz, who has long been viewed as a national icon, had faced   intense backlash   from fans and activists for endorsing President Suluhu’s bid for re-election. Many accused him of aligning with an administration accused of stifling dissent.

He is not alone. Other leading artists including   Ali Kiba, Harmonize, Nandy, Zuchu, and Rayvanny    have also voiced support for President Suluhu, praising her leadership and development record. Their endorsements, often through songs, freestyles, and campaign-themed videos, have   blended politics with pop culture, turning campaign slogans into viral challenges and fueling heated online debates. Political analysts note that this level of celebrity involvement in electoral politics is   unprecedented in Tanzania, potentially shaping youth voter behavior and the tone of the campaigns.

Meanwhile, reports of   human rights violations   continue to surface, including allegations of torture, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances. The government’s response including the   internet blackout   and censorship measures has raised alarms over the   future of democracy and freedom of expression   in the country.

In a recent statement,   Information Minister Innocent Bashungwa   warned Tanzanians against sharing social media content critical of President Suluhu, even if posted abroad, saying such acts could “disrupt national peace.” The directive has further inflamed tensions and drawn criticism from free-speech advocates.

As protests persist, observers say Tanzania stands at a   critical crossroads    between addressing the legitimate grievances of its citizens and tightening its grip on dissent. How the government responds in the coming days could define the country’s political and democratic trajectory for years to come.