Zanzibar police urged to tackle online election violations

ZANZIBAR: PERMANENT Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Youth, Culture and Sports, Ms Fatma Hamad Rajab, has called on police to take firm action against individuals who disrupt peace, especially through online platforms, as the country approaches the general election.

Speaking to cybercrime officers during a meeting at her office at Migombani area on content regulation for broadcasters, she urged close collaboration with the Zanzibar Broadcasting Commission to monitor and control digital content.

She said previous elections had seen a rise in defamatory posts targeting candidates and leaders— acts that violate the law.

Ms Rajab called on citizens not to fall for divisive rhetoric and emphasised that joint efforts between law enforcement and regulators will help identify and prosecute offenders swiftly.

Zanzibar Broadcasting Commission (ZBC) Executive Secretary Mr Hiji Dadi Shajak also stressed the need for cooperation with the police due to the increasing reach of digital platforms.

Assistant Inspector Khalid Suleiman said the police are well-prepared to curb cybercrimes in partnership with TCRA, the Broadcasting Commission and internet service providers.

He warned youth against using social media irresponsibly, particularly to defame public leaders, adding that violators will face legal consequences.