Tanzania Crackdown on Planned Demonstration Results in Streets Deserted.
Security has been tightened throughout the country with officers and soldiers observed on patrol in key urban areas ahead of anticipated demonstrations against the government called to coincide with the nation's independence anniversary.
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 amid uncertainty over if the demonstrations would proceed.
The demonstrations were called to call for political reforms following the unrest that followed last October's elections which left an unknown number of people dead.
Government Acknowledges Use of Force
The authorities have admitted employing force against demonstrators, claiming that certain elements aimed to topple the government.
On Tuesday, reporters observed nearly empty streets in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam. This was a stark contrast to the city's typical weekday activity.
Although quiet, the atmosphere remained tense.
Increased Police Presence Nationwide
Armored vehicles were spotted cruising along primary thoroughfares and junctions, while personnel were stationed at key points, including around key public infrastructure.
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.
Drivers who went out experienced regular stops at security checkpoints, where police interrogated motorists about where they were headed.
Government Stance and Bans
The government has not issued specific statements 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 overall situation painted a picture of a nation on edge, where the threat of protest resulted in a preemptive security lockdown that left conspicuously quiet normally bustling urban centers.
