Tanzania’s police have confirmed that their official X (formerly Twitter) account was hacked on Tuesday, leading to the publication of a false announcement claiming the death of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Authorities quickly removed the post, describing it as “false and misleading,” and stated it was made by an unknown external party. No suspects have been identified so far.
In a related development, local media reported that the Tanzania Revenue Authority’s YouTube channel was also compromised, prompting concerns of a coordinated cyberattack targeting state institutions.
Officials have assured the public that the situation is now under control and that steps are being taken to secure all affected digital platforms.
The incident comes at a politically sensitive time, as Tanzania prepares for general elections later this year. President Samia, who assumed office in 2021 following the death of President John Magufuli, has not yet officially announced whether she will run for another term, though speculation continues to mount.
The government has not disclosed the extent of the breach, but investigations are ongoing.