Tanzania’s communications regulator has suspended the digital platforms of a local media company for allegedly publishing restricted content, adding to what human rights groups have described as a growing crackdown on press freedom.

Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) said late on Wednesday it had suspended online content licences for Mwananchi Communications Ltd for 30 days, saying it had published content on Oct. 1 that damaged the country’s image.

“The content has led to negative interpretations to the nation, which is affecting and disrupting unity, peace and national harmony.” It did not say what the restricted content was.

One of Mwananchi’s publications, The Citizen, published on Oct. 1 an animated

video on its X and Instagram platforms depicting a woman watching a television broadcast that showed people complaining about missing or murdered relatives and friends.