DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — Security measures have been significantly escalated throughout Tanzania, with heightened visibility of police and military personnel patrolling key urban centers. This mobilization comes ahead of anticipated anti-government demonstrations scheduled to coincide with Independence Day.
However, no protests had commenced by midday.
Residents across major cities, including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya, and Mwanza, reported an unusually subdued start to the day, with many citizens opting to remain in their homes due to uncertainty regarding the potential for demonstrations.
The planned protests were organized to press for political reforms following the post-election unrest in October, which resulted in an unspecified number of fatalities.
Authorities have acknowledged using force against demonstrators, asserting that certain factions were attempting to destabilize the government.
On Tuesday, our reporters observed nearly deserted streets in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam, presenting a marked contrast to the city’s typical weekday dynamism.
Despite the prevailing quiet, the atmosphere remained visibly tense. Security vehicles were observed patrolling major thoroughfares and intersections, and law enforcement officers established positions at strategic locations, notably around vital public infrastructure.
Also Read: Tanzania urges non-essential workers to remain home on Independence Day
On social media platforms, activists and campaigners continued to encourage supporters to maintain vigilance, suggesting that any demonstrations were unlikely to begin until the afternoon. This communication strategy aligns with previous protest calls in Tanzania, where participation has historically increased later in the day.
Motorists who ventured onto the roads reported frequent scrutiny at roadblocks, where officers routinely questioned drivers about their intended destinations.
The Tanzanian government has maintained silence regarding the detailed reasons for the heightened security posture or the nature of the planned protests.
The authorities had previously banned the demonstrations and cancelled the national Independence Day celebrations, issuing an advisory urging citizens to remain indoors.
