According to a report by Arise TV, in a controversial ruling, Tanzanian artist Shadrack Chaula has been sentenced to two years in prison or a $2,000 (£1,600) fine for setting fire to a photograph of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The 24-year-old painter was charged with cybercrimes after creating a viral video in which he burned the president's photo and verbally attacked her.
Chaula, who admitted to the charges, did not mount a defense in court, leading to widespread debate over the legality and implications of his actions.
His arrest and subsequent conviction have sparked a significant legal and public discourse, with many questioning the interpretation and enforcement of cybercrime laws in Tanzania.
The incident occurred on June 30 in Ntokela village near the city of Mbeya, where Chaula posted the controversial video on TikTok. Local police chief Benjamin Kuzaga described the content as containing “strong language” against the president. "It is not the tradition of Mbeya residents to insult our national leaders," Kuzaga said in a statement.
Despite the outrage, some lawyers have argued that there is no specific legislation making the act of burning the president's photo illegal.
Philip Mwakilima, a prominent lawyer, voiced his concerns in the Mwananchi newspaper, stating, “Was the photograph taken by a government photographer? They should publicly explain its societal and national impact. Who can show the law that makes burning a picture an offense?”
Magistrate Shamla Shehagilo found Chaula guilty of violating the country’s cyber laws, which were introduced in 2018 to combat the spread of “fake news.” Critics have argued that these laws are being used to stifle freedom of expression.
The court determined that Chaula’s actions amounted to cyber-harassment and incitement, which warranted a severe penalty.
The prosecutor in the case emphasized the need for a harsh sentence to deter others from disrespecting the president. Chaula, however, remained silent when given the opportunity to defend himself.
The case has ignited a national debate, with some social media users launching a campaign to raise funds to pay Chaula’s fine and avoid imprisonment. This effort highlights the public's unease with what they perceive as an excessively harsh sentence aimed at suppressing dissent.
President Hassan, who assumed office in 2021, has been credited with implementing reforms to increase political and civic freedoms.