We are seeking votes for our candidate, Mama Samia Suluhu Hassan our mother with all our effort and commitment, the 37-year-old told the crowd, posting photos and videos to her 11 million Instagram followers. Her account, filled with pro-government content including a profile picture of the president, goes beyond simple celebrity support. It is emblematic of an unfolding digital battle as Tanzania prepares to vote on October 29.
Violent demonstrations broke out in Tanzania's largest city, Dar es Salaam, as the country held an election on Wednesday. Samia Suluhu Hassan, the president, is expected to strengthen her grip on the country against the backdrop of rapidly intensifying repression and the exclusion of opponents from the presidential contest. Social media videos show protesters throwing rocks at police, and a petrol station burning.