The Tanzanian Crackdown on Planned Demonstration Results in City Centers Deserted.
Security has been tightened 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.
As of noon, however, no protests had materialized.
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 if the demonstrations would proceed.
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 Use of Force
The authorities have admitted using force against protesters, asserting that some groups were attempting to overthrow the regime.
On Tuesday, reporters observed nearly empty streets in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam. This was a stark contrast to the city's usual weekday bustle.
Although quiet, the atmosphere remained tense.
Heightened Security Nationwide
Security vehicles were seen driving along major roads and intersections, while officers took up positions at strategic locations, particularly near important public buildings and facilities.
On social media, activists and campaigners urged followers to remain vigilant, implying that any protest activity would likely commence later in the day. The messaging echoed 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.
Official Position and Bans
Authorities have not provided specific statements on the heightened security measures or on the scheduled demonstrations.
The government has prohibited the intended demonstrations and called off independence anniversary events, urging citizens to stay indoors.
"An eerie quiet masks the underlying tension felt by those indoors."
The overall situation depicted a country under strain, where the threat of protest led to a preemptive security lockdown that left conspicuously quiet typically busy cities.
