The Tanzanian Crackdown on Scheduled Protest Results in Streets 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.
Midday arrived without any sign of the planned demonstrations.
People living in several major urban centers 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 protests were organized to demand changes to the political system in the wake of October's post-election unrest 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 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 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 followers to remain vigilant, 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.
Motorists who ventured out reported frequent checks at roadblocks, where police interrogated motorists about their destinations.
Government Stance and Bans
Authorities have not provided detailed comments on the heightened security measures or on the planned protests.
The government has prohibited the planned protests and called off independence anniversary events, advising the public to remain at home.
"The prevailing mood is one of quiet tension as people choose to stay home."
The overall situation depicted a country under strain, where the threat of protest resulted in a preemptive security lockdown that effectively emptied normally bustling cities.
