Tanzanian rapper arrested over song critical of president freed

Tanzanian rapper Nay wa Mitego has been freed after his arrest on Sunday over a song he released which is critical of the government.

The popular rapper was freed from police detention in the capital dar es Salaam after Information Minister Harrison Mwakyembe ordered his release.

The minister later addressed the press saying President John Magufuli appreciates the song for how it deals with relevant issues facing the country, local media reported.

He added that the president also wants the rapper to add more lyrics to condemn corruption and that the song can be played on radio stations without any restriction.

The song – “Wapo” – has been widely shared on social media since its release last week as it refers to a doctor who lances boils but cannot tolerate criticism.

His questioning of freedom of expression got Nay wa Mitego, real name Emmanuel Elibariki into trouble.

Immediately after his release, the rapper thanked all those who stood with him while in detention.

'Asante kwa wote walioamka na kuwa upande wangu, upande wa haki, walioamini kile ambacho nimekifanya nawashukuru sana'-Nay wa Mitego pic.twitter.com/kbtHHz7rcV

— millard ayo (@millardayo) March 27, 2017

His arrest comes days after Magufuli warned the media in the country to be careful how they use their press freedom.

Watch the song’s video below.

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