CNN International Correspondent Larry Madowo has explained his absence from covering Tanzania's general elections, citing the government's systemic refusal to allow independent foreign reporting. Madowo stated that Tanzania "does not like independent, critical reporting."

• Madowo highlighted that foreign journalists require media accreditation from the government, which is "rarely granted for sensitive coverage."
• He noted that Tanzania's restrictive environment for journalists has not improved under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, nor did it under the late President John Magufuli.
• Madowo emphasized the risk of arrest and intimidation for reporting without proper authorization, stating he could be "arrested, deported, or worse" if he attempted to report as a tourist.