MIC Tanzania (tiGO) Allegedly Complicit in Political Violence: Tribunal Hears Explosive Testimony

Former Investigator Reveals Telecommunication Company’s Role in Data Sharing Leading to Attack on Opposition Leader Tundu Lissu

In a shocking revelation, a Central London employment tribunal has received evidence implicating the telecommunications giant MIC Tanzania Limited, commonly known as tiGO, in the events leading up to the attempted assassination of Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu. The tribunal was presented with claims that tiGO shared Lissu's mobile phone call logs and location data with the Tanzanian government on a 24/7 basis, during a critical period before the attack in September 2017.

The allegations are a major blow to tiGO’s reputation, raising questions about its compliance with privacy regulations and potential involvement in political suppression. This comes as the telecommunications industry globally faces increased scrutiny regarding its relationship with governments, especially in politically sensitive environments.

Background on the Assassination Attempt

On September 7, 2017, Tundu Lissu was shot 16 times at his parliamentary residence in Dodoma, Tanzania, by unknown assailants. Miraculously, Lissu survived the attack and underwent extensive medical treatment abroad. The assassination attempt came amid a heightened period of political tension in Tanzania, where Lissu, a prominent critic of the government, had become a key figure in the opposition.

Michael Clifford's Dismissal and Testimony

At the heart of the tribunal case is Michael Clifford, a former internal investigator for tiGO, who claims he was unfairly dismissed after raising concerns about the company’s actions. Clifford alleges that he discovered evidence of tiGO’s role in providing Lissu's mobile phone data to the government but was met with resistance when he brought it to light. He asserts that his dismissal was a direct result of these concerns and tiGO's attempt to silence any internal criticism.

Clifford’s testimony, if proven true, suggests that tiGO actively facilitated government surveillance of an opposition leader, potentially enabling the assassination attempt. This raises significant ethical questions about the company’s operations and its willingness to comply with politically motivated demands from state actors.

Implications for Privacy and Political Freedom in Tanzania

The accusations against tiGO are a stark reminder of the precarious state of privacy and political freedom in Tanzania. Under the current administration, opposition leaders and activists have frequently reported intimidation and harassment. Lissu himself has been a vocal critic of government policies, particularly concerning human rights and the rule of law.

If tiGO is found guilty of sharing private data with the government, it could mark a serious breach of trust between telecommunications companies and their customers. Such an outcome would also highlight the broader issue of corporate complicity in political violence, especially in countries where democratic freedoms are under threat.

Legal and Ethical Consequences

The revelations presented at the tribunal could lead to legal repercussions for tiGO, both in Tanzania and internationally. Privacy laws in many countries, including the UK's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), impose strict guidelines on how companies handle user data, especially when there is potential for abuse by government entities.

For Clifford, his case could set a precedent for whistleblowers within the corporate world who uncover unethical or illegal activities. A favorable ruling in his case would not only restore his professional reputation but could also encourage more individuals to come forward when they witness corporate malpractice.

Tundu Lissu’s Ongoing Struggle for Justice

Meanwhile, Lissu continues to seek justice for the attack on his life. Despite surviving the assassination attempt, he has remained a vocal critic of the government, calling for greater political freedom and accountability in Tanzania. The tribunal case adds another layer to his fight, as it sheds light on the extent of government surveillance and its potential links to violence against opposition figures.

Conclusion

The allegations against MIC Tanzania (tiGO) mark a pivotal moment in the conversation about privacy, corporate ethics, and political freedom in Africa. As the tribunal unfolds, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for both the telecommunications industry and the protection of political dissent in Tanzania. Whether or not justice will be served for Tundu Lissu and Michael Clifford remains to be seen, but the case serves as a stark reminder of the fragile state of privacy and human rights in politically volatile regions.