The Tanzanian Crackdown on Scheduled Demonstration Results in City Centers Deserted.
Security has been tightened throughout the country with officers and soldiers observed on patrol in major cities in anticipation of expected anti-government protests called to coincide with the nation's independence anniversary.
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 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 left an unknown number of people dead.
Government Acknowledges Employing Force
Officials have conceded employing force against demonstrators, asserting that some groups were attempting to overthrow the regime.
Correspondents noted on Tuesday nearly empty streets in the business hub, Dar es Salaam. This was a stark contrast to the city's typical weekday activity.
While quiet, a palpable tension filled the air.
Increased Police Presence Nationwide
Security vehicles were seen driving along primary thoroughfares and junctions, while officers took up positions at strategic locations, including around 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.
Drivers who went out experienced regular stops at security checkpoints, where officers questioned drivers about where they were headed.
Government Stance and Prohibitions
Authorities have not provided specific statements on the heightened security measures or on the scheduled demonstrations.
The government has prohibited the planned protests and cancelled independence day celebrations, 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 potential for demonstration resulted in a security clampdown in advance that effectively emptied typically busy cities.
