The Tanzanian Crackdown on Scheduled Protest Results in Streets Deserted.
A significant security presence has been deployed throughout the country with police and military seen patrolling key urban areas ahead of expected demonstrations against the government called to coincide with independence day.
By midday, however, no demonstrations had begun.
Residents in several major urban centers noted the day began with unusual quietness, with many people choosing to remain indoors amid uncertainty over whether protests would happen.
The protests were organized to demand political reforms in the wake of October's post-election unrest which left an unknown number of people dead.
Government Acknowledges Use of Force
The authorities have admitted employing force against demonstrators, claiming that some groups were attempting to overthrow the regime.
Correspondents noted on Tuesday nearly empty streets in the business hub, Dar es Salaam. This stood in sharp contrast to the city's usual weekday bustle.
Although quiet, the atmosphere remained tense.
Heightened Security Nationwide
Security vehicles were seen driving along primary thoroughfares and junctions, while officers took up positions at strategic locations, including around key public infrastructure.
Through online platforms, organizers advised followers to remain vigilant, suggesting any demonstrations were unlikely to begin until the afternoon. The messaging echoed previous protest calls in Tanzania, when participation grew as the day progressed.
Drivers who went out experienced regular stops at security checkpoints, where officers questioned drivers about where they were headed.
Official Position and Prohibitions
The government has not issued specific statements on the heightened security measures or on the planned protests.
The government has prohibited the planned protests and cancelled independence day celebrations, advising the public to remain at home.
"With many staying at home the atmosphere is quiet but tense."
The day's events depicted a nation on edge, where the threat of protest led to a preemptive security lockdown that left conspicuously quiet typically busy cities.
