Tanzania Crackdown on Scheduled Demonstration Leaves City Centers Unusually Quiet.
Security has been tightened across Tanzania with police and military seen patrolling key urban areas in anticipation of expected demonstrations against the government scheduled for the nation's independence anniversary.
By midday, however, no demonstrations had begun.
People living in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya, Mwanza reported an unusually slow start to the day, with many people choosing to remain indoors due to doubts about whether protests would happen.
The protests were organized to demand changes to the political system in the wake of the unrest that followed last October's elections which resulted in an unconfirmed death toll.
Government Acknowledges Use of Force
Officials have conceded using force against protesters, claiming that some groups were attempting to overthrow the regime.
On Tuesday, reporters observed nearly empty streets in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam. This stood in sharp contrast to the city's typical weekday activity.
While quiet, a palpable tension filled the air.
Increased Police Presence Nationwide
Security vehicles were seen driving along primary thoroughfares and junctions, while personnel were stationed at key points, including around important public buildings and facilities.
On social media, activists and campaigners urged followers to remain vigilant, implying that any protest activity would likely commence later in the day. The messaging echoed previous protest calls in Tanzania, when participation grew as the day progressed.
Drivers who went out experienced frequent checks at roadblocks, where police interrogated motorists about their destinations.
Government Stance and Prohibitions
Authorities have not provided detailed comments on the increased security or on the scheduled demonstrations.
Tanzanian authorities have banned the planned protests and cancelled independence day celebrations, urging citizens to stay indoors.
"The prevailing mood is one of quiet tension as people choose to stay home."
The day's events depicted a nation on edge, where the potential for demonstration resulted in a security clampdown in advance that left conspicuously quiet typically busy cities.
