Tanzania Crackdown on Planned Protest Results in City Centers Unusually Quiet.
Security has been tightened across Tanzania with police and military seen patrolling major cities ahead of expected anti-government protests scheduled for independence day.
Midday arrived without any sign of the planned demonstrations.
Residents in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya, Mwanza reported an unusually slow start to the day, with a large number opting to stay home due to doubts about whether protests would happen.
The demonstrations were called to call for changes to the political system in the wake of October's post-election unrest which left an unknown number of people dead.
Authorities Admit Employing Force
The authorities have admitted using force against protesters, asserting that some groups were attempting to overthrow the regime.
Correspondents noted on Tuesday streets that were largely deserted in the business hub, Dar es Salaam. This stood in sharp contrast to the city's typical weekday activity.
While quiet, a palpable tension filled the air.
Heightened Security Nationwide
Security vehicles were seen driving along major roads and intersections, while personnel were stationed at key points, particularly near key public infrastructure.
Through online platforms, organizers advised followers to remain vigilant, implying that any protest activity would likely commence later in the day. This communication mirrored past mobilization efforts in the country, when turnout increased later in the day.
Drivers who went out experienced regular stops at security checkpoints, where officers questioned drivers about their destinations.
Government Stance and Bans
The government has not issued specific statements on the increased security or on the scheduled demonstrations.
The government has prohibited 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 overall situation depicted a nation on edge, where the potential for demonstration resulted in a security clampdown in advance that left conspicuously quiet typically busy cities.
