Tanzania Security Clampdown on Planned Protest Results in City Centers Unusually Quiet.
Security has been tightened throughout the country with police and military seen patrolling key urban areas ahead of expected demonstrations against the government scheduled for 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 due to doubts about if the demonstrations would proceed.
The demonstrations were called 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
The authorities have admitted using force against protesters, 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.
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 key points, 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. 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 Bans
Authorities have not provided specific statements on the increased security 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 left conspicuously quiet normally bustling urban centers.
