DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — The Tanzanian Government has announced an immediate curfew in Dar es Salaam following a tense election day marred by widespread demonstrations, civil unrest, and a nationwide internet outage.
The security measure was confirmed by Dar es Salaam Special Zone Police Commander, Jumanne Muliro, who declared that the curfew would commence from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am local time. The Commander did not specify when the order is expected to be lifted.
Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Alfred Chalamila reinforced the police’s directive, issuing a stern warning to anyone attempting to disrupt the nation’s peace. He stated that security forces were prepared to use overwhelming force against agitators:
“Even if you see there’s propaganda of any kind on social media about any area of the Dar es Salaam region, know the power that will be used to control the matter is seven times more than the force applied for planning it,” Chalamila noted.
Internet services shut down
Adding to the environment of tension, a report from our correspondent in Tanzania, revealed that internet services were shut down, blocking access for citizens during the polls.
Digital rights groups have consistently warned that such measures restrict the flow of information and hamper civic participation during electoral periods.
The election day itself was defined by demonstrations as opposition supporters took to the streets across the country. Protesters cited a ‘one-sided election’ and called for deep electoral reforms.
The unrest followed the detention of prominent Opposition leader Tundu Lissu, compelling his party, CHADEMA, to boycott the votes entirely.
Police responded to the street protests by lobbing tear gas to disperse the demonstrators and tightening security considerably in key cities, including Dar es Salaam.
Low voter turnout amid fear
Despite there being over 37 million registered voters, initial reports indicate a low voter turnout across the country.
Many citizens reportedly stayed away from polling stations out of fear amid the running battles between the police and the protesters, suggesting the civil unrest significantly impacted participation.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is proceeding with the tallying process.
According to the commission, the full results from the national polls are expected to be released within three days after the close of polling stations.
