The Tanzanian Crackdown on Scheduled Demonstration Leaves City Centers Unusually Quiet.
Security has been tightened across Tanzania with police and military seen patrolling major cities 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 a large number opting to stay home amid uncertainty over whether protests would happen.
The protests were organized to call for changes to the political system in the wake of the unrest that followed last October's elections which resulted in an unconfirmed death toll.
Authorities Admit Employing Force
Officials have conceded employing force against demonstrators, claiming that some groups were attempting to overthrow the regime.
Correspondents noted on Tuesday streets that were largely deserted in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam. This was a stark contrast to the city's typical weekday activity.
The quiet was undercut by a persistent sense of tension.
Increased Police Presence Nationwide
Security vehicles were seen driving along primary thoroughfares and junctions, while personnel were stationed at strategic locations, particularly near important public buildings and facilities.
On social media, activists and campaigners urged supporters to stay alert, implying that any protest activity would likely commence later in the day. This communication mirrored previous protest calls in Tanzania, when turnout increased later in the day.
Motorists who ventured out reported regular stops at security checkpoints, where police interrogated motorists about their destinations.
Government Stance and Prohibitions
Authorities have not provided specific statements on the increased security or on the planned protests.
The government has prohibited the intended demonstrations and called off independence anniversary events, advising the public to remain at home.
"An eerie quiet masks the underlying tension felt by those indoors."
The overall situation painted a picture of a country under strain, where the threat of protest resulted in a security clampdown in advance that left conspicuously quiet normally bustling cities.
