CNN journalist Larry Madowo on Sunday, December 7, issued a clarification following reports claiming he had been sponsored to run a smear campaign against Tanzania.
He dismissed circulating images online that suggested he was linked to powerful individuals allegedly seeking to undermine Tanzania’s economy following the October 29 elections.
Madowo maintained that he had not been paid by anyone to tarnish the country’s image and accused his critics of spreading misinformation instead of addressing the substance of his report.
Madowo Denies Smear Campaign Allegations Against Tanzania. Photo: Courtesy.
He also warned that manipulated and AI-generated images were being used to damage his reputation and urged the public to be vigilant when sharing content online.
Madowo has drawn sharp reactions in Tanzania following his documentary on the post-election crisis, which alleged the existence of mass graves linked to protest victims.
He previously noted that he was denied accreditation to report from the country.
While he initially received praise from some Tanzanians, backlash grew after AI-generated images falsely linked him to activist Maria Sarungi, a critic of President Samia Suluhu.
Madowo has defended his documentary despite online backlash, while international pressure on Tanzania has grown after U.S. lawmakers called for an independent probe.
The Tanzanian government has announced plans to set up a commission of inquiry.
