For releasing a song called considered insulting to the government, popular Tanzanian rapper Emmanuel Elibariki, who performs as Ney wa Mitego, has been arrested.

According to Ceoafrica, the song, Wapo, which has not made it to the radio airwaves yet, emerged last week and was widely shared on social media.

Part of it asks: “Is there still freedom of expression in the country?”

It makes reference to a doctor who lances boils but cannot tolerate criticism.

President John Magufuli has often spoken of "lancing boils" in reference to his no-nonsense approach to governing.

The police told a local newspaper that “Ney wa Mitego will be questioned for releasing a song with words that malign the government".

The rapper is popular for his scathing lyrics attacking not only the government but even his fellow artists.

On his social media accounts he uses the name Nay true boy (translated from Swahili), saying he always speaks his mind and tells the truth.

His arrest comes some days after President John Magufuli warned media owners to be careful on how they use their press freedom.