“I Only Told Them to Buy Masks” – Niffer Jovin Faces New Charges in Tanzania

Tanzanian TikTok star Niffer Jovin faces fresh allegations. Prosecutors now claim she created a WhatsApp group. In it, she allegedly encouraged people to buy masks to protect against teargas during post-election protests. Critics say the government is changing the goalposts.

Niffer, 26, was first arrested on October 27. The arrest came amid protests after the disputed October 29 elections. She was charged with conspiracy and treason alongside 21 others. The new charge singles her out. Authorities say she mobilized people to prepare for protests.

Her lawyer, Peter Kibatala, told the court she was beaten by police. He said she was forced to sign a statement. Videos from court show Niffer looking drained, limping and visibly stressed. Her mother, Mwanaisha Isaac, publicly pleaded for her release. She highlighted that Niffer supports her family financially and is law-abiding.

Support for Niffer is growing online. Thousands visited her shop, Niffer Mall, buying products in solidarity. Social media users across Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Ghana and Zimbabwe condemned the government. They called the charges baseless and an abuse of power.

Treason, the main charge, is a capital offense under Tanzania’s Penal Code. It covers waging war against the Republic, aiding enemies and conspiring to commit these acts. Advocates warn that prosecuting someone for promoting safety measures is dangerous.

As the case unfolds, international attention is rising. Rights groups demand fairness, transparency and respect for civil liberties. Many fear this sets a precedent against youth activism in Tanzania.