The Tanzanian Security Clampdown on Scheduled Demonstration Results in Streets Unusually Quiet.
Security has been tightened throughout the country with police and military seen patrolling key urban areas ahead of expected anti-government protests scheduled for independence day.
By midday, however, no demonstrations had begun.
Residents in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya, Mwanza reported an unusually slow start to the day, with a large number opting to stay home due to doubts about whether protests would happen.
The protests were organized to call for political reforms 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 certain elements aimed to topple the government.
Correspondents noted on Tuesday streets that were largely deserted in the business hub, Dar es Salaam. This stood in sharp contrast to the city's typical weekday activity.
Although quiet, the atmosphere remained tense.
Heightened Security Nationwide
Armored vehicles were spotted cruising along primary thoroughfares and junctions, while personnel were stationed at key points, including around key public infrastructure.
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.
Motorists who ventured out reported frequent checks at roadblocks, where police interrogated motorists about where they were headed.
Official Position and Prohibitions
The government has not issued specific statements on the increased security or on the planned protests.
The government has prohibited the intended demonstrations and called off independence anniversary events, urging citizens to stay indoors.
"An eerie quiet masks the underlying tension felt by those indoors."
The day's events painted a picture of a nation on edge, where the potential for demonstration resulted in a preemptive security lockdown that left conspicuously quiet normally bustling urban centers.
