Tanzania Crackdown on Planned Demonstration Leaves City Centers Unusually Quiet.
Security has been tightened across Tanzania with police and military seen patrolling major cities ahead of anticipated anti-government protests called to coincide with the nation's independence anniversary.
Midday arrived without any sign of the planned demonstrations.
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 political reforms following October's post-election unrest which left an unknown number of people dead.
Authorities Admit Employing Force
Officials have conceded using force against protesters, asserting that certain elements aimed to topple the government.
On Tuesday, reporters observed nearly empty streets in the business hub, 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
Security vehicles were seen driving along primary thoroughfares and junctions, while personnel were stationed at key points, including around important public buildings and facilities.
Through online platforms, organizers advised followers to remain vigilant, implying that any protest activity would likely commence later in the day. The messaging echoed past mobilization efforts in the country, when participation grew as the day progressed.
Drivers who went out experienced regular stops at security checkpoints, where police interrogated motorists about where they were headed.
Official Position and Bans
The government has not issued detailed comments 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.
"The prevailing mood is one of quiet tension as people choose to stay home."
The overall situation depicted a nation on edge, where the threat of protest resulted in a preemptive security lockdown that effectively emptied normally bustling cities.
