CNN international correspondent Larry Madowo has made a public appeal to Tanzanians to help uncover what he describes as a hidden truth behind the recent deadly protests linked to last week’s controversial elections.
In a heartfelt message shared online, Madowo said his team is putting together a detailed report for CNN that aims to piece together the full story of the unrest.
He urged Tanzanians who personally recorded the violence to share original videos and eyewitness footage directly with him.
“Tanzanians, I am asking for your help. We are preparing a CNN report about what happened during and after the elections,” Madowo said.
“Many people have died because of these events, but many journalists in Tanzania have not been given the freedom to tell the truth.”
The protests, which erupted in several cities following the disputed election results, have reportedly left scores of people dead and many others injured.
Witness accounts have been difficult to verify, with local journalists allegedly facing threats and censorship when trying to report on the situation.
Madowo said CNN’s investigation will rely heavily on verified eyewitness evidence from those who were on the ground.
He specifically asked Tanzanians to avoid forwarding old or recycled clips circulating online.
“Send me only what you personally recorded. Send it to my inbox directly,” he said.
The Kenyan journalist, known for his coverage of African political and human rights issues, noted that authentic footage would help expose what really unfolded and give a voice to those affected.
“Help us investigate what really happened so that we can tell the world,” he appealed.
Madowo’s initiative adds international attention to a story many local reporters have struggled to cover freely.
CNN’s upcoming feature is expected to shed light on the protests, the government’s response, and the human toll behind the unrest that has shaken Tanzania.