The Tanzanian Crackdown on Planned Demonstration Results in Streets Unusually Quiet.
Security has been tightened across Tanzania with police and military seen patrolling key urban areas ahead of expected 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 many people choosing to remain indoors amid uncertainty over if the demonstrations would proceed.
The demonstrations were called to demand political reforms in the wake of the unrest that followed last October's elections which left an unknown number of people dead.
Authorities Admit Use of Force
The authorities have admitted using force against protesters, claiming that certain elements aimed to topple the government.
On Tuesday, reporters observed streets that were largely deserted 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 Across Cities
Armored vehicles were spotted cruising along primary thoroughfares and junctions, while personnel were stationed at key points, particularly near 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. The messaging echoed previous protest calls in Tanzania, when turnout increased later in the day.
Drivers who went out experienced frequent checks at roadblocks, where police interrogated motorists about their destinations.
Official Position and Prohibitions
Authorities have not provided specific statements on the heightened security measures or on the planned protests.
Tanzanian authorities have banned 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 painted a picture of a nation on edge, where the potential for demonstration led to a security clampdown in advance that left conspicuously quiet normally bustling cities.
