Tanzanian authorities have intensified security and restricted movement along major streets in key cities, including Dar es Salaam, Kisesa, and Mwanza, ahead of the planned Independence Day protests.
Kenyan journalist Larry Madowo shared a video of a Tanzanian man walking through the unusually empty streets of Dar es Salaam on Tuesday, December 9, after the government outlawed Independence Day demonstrations and directed citizens to remain indoors.
“It is around 9:00 AM, and there are no people in the streets. On the day that we were supposed to celebrate our independence, we’re locked inside like rats,” the man says as he records the deserted capital.
The government has also deployed military personnel to reinforce police presence and discourage any public gatherings.
Activist Maria Sarungi posted a video on X showing Tanzanian citizens interacting with military officers in Mwanza.
Tanzania outlaws Independence Day protests
This comes after President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration on Monday announced that the nationwide demonstrations planned for Independence Day were illegal.
The protests, spearheaded by opposition supporters and set for Independence Day, were meant to raise concerns about the government’s performance and alleged governance shortcomings.
Following the announcement, human rights groups urged the authorities to safeguard citizens who might still choose to exercise their right to assemble. In Dar es Salaam, residents flocked to supermarkets and shopping centres to stock up on essentials after the government advised the public to stay indoors.
Interior Minister George Simbachawene reaffirmed the state’s stance, emphasising that Tuesday’s demonstrations would not be permitted.
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Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba, while delivering the Head of State’s message, appealed to Tanzanians to remain at home unless performing essential duties.
The Tanzania Police Force had also announced last week that any protests during Independence Day would be illegal.
They accused the organizers of inciting participants to seize property, disrupt hospital services, and block the streets to paralyze economic activity.
As tensions rose, police arrested several activists linked to the planned protests, sparking condemnation from regional human rights networks.
Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana denounced the arrests, accusing the government of undermining constitutional liberties and misusing state agencies. Other activists warned that Tanzania is edging toward a worsening human rights environment.
Rights organisations further criticised the authorities for a history of excessive force during politically charged demonstrations, some of which have resulted in deaths. Ahead of the Independence Day events, they called on security forces to avoid violence and protect fundamental freedoms.
Speaking from Mombasa, representatives of Vocal Africa said they would closely monitor the situation, expressing solidarity with Tanzanian citizens as developments unfold.
Post-election violence
The tension in Tanzania is raising concerns of further clashes after October’s post-election violence. President Suluhu’s victory in the presidential vote triggered protests across the country after her main rivals were disqualified.
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Hundreds of people were killed, according to opposition parties and international rights organizations, and thousands more arrested. A spokesperson for the United Nations Human Rights Commissioner last week reminded Tanzanian authorities of “their obligation to ensure the rights to peaceful assembly.”
He also urged security forces to “refrain from using force to disperse non-violent assemblies and make every effort to de-escalate tensions.”
Also, the United States on Thursday last week said it is reviewing its relationship with Tanzania over concerns about religious freedom, freedom of expression, barriers to U.S. investment, and violence against civilians.
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