Tanzania Crackdown on Scheduled Demonstration Results in City Centers Deserted.
Security has been tightened across Tanzania with police and military seen patrolling major cities ahead of anticipated anti-government protests called to coincide with independence day.
As of noon, however, no protests had materialized.
Residents in several major urban centers noted the day began with unusual quietness, with a large number opting to stay home due to doubts about if the demonstrations would proceed.
The protests were organized to call for changes to the political system following October's post-election unrest which left an unknown number of people dead.
Authorities Admit Use of Force
Officials have conceded employing force against demonstrators, claiming that some groups were attempting to overthrow the regime.
On Tuesday, reporters observed nearly empty streets in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam. This stood in sharp contrast to the city's usual weekday bustle.
Although quiet, the atmosphere remained tense.
Increased Police Presence Nationwide
Armored vehicles were spotted cruising along major roads and intersections, while personnel were stationed at strategic locations, including around important public buildings and facilities.
On social media, activists and campaigners urged supporters to stay alert, suggesting any demonstrations were unlikely to begin until the afternoon. This communication mirrored past mobilization efforts in the country, when turnout increased later in the day.
Motorists who ventured out reported regular stops at security checkpoints, where officers questioned drivers about their destinations.
Official Position and Bans
Authorities have not provided detailed comments on the increased security or on the scheduled demonstrations.
Tanzanian authorities have banned the planned protests and cancelled independence day celebrations, advising the public to remain at home.
"With many staying at home the atmosphere is quiet but tense."
The overall situation painted a picture of a nation on edge, where the threat of protest resulted in a preemptive security lockdown that effectively emptied typically busy urban centers.
