Tanzania Crackdown on Planned Protest Leaves Streets Deserted.
Security has been tightened across Tanzania with officers and soldiers observed on patrol in key urban areas in anticipation of expected anti-government protests scheduled for the nation's independence anniversary.
By midday, however, no demonstrations had begun.
People living in several major urban centers reported an unusually slow start to the day, with a large number opting to stay home amid uncertainty over if the demonstrations would proceed.
The demonstrations were called to call for changes to the political system in the wake of October's post-election unrest which left an unknown number of people dead.
Government Acknowledges Employing Force
Officials have conceded using force against protesters, 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 was a stark contrast to the city's typical weekday activity.
Although quiet, the atmosphere remained tense.
Heightened Security Across Cities
Armored vehicles were spotted cruising along primary thoroughfares and junctions, while personnel were stationed at strategic locations, particularly near important public buildings and facilities.
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.
Motorists who ventured out reported regular stops at security checkpoints, where police interrogated motorists about where they were headed.
Official Position and Bans
Authorities have not provided detailed comments on the increased security or on the scheduled demonstrations.
Tanzanian authorities have banned the intended demonstrations and called off independence anniversary events, urging citizens to stay indoors.
"The prevailing mood is one of quiet tension as people choose to stay home."
The overall situation depicted a country under strain, where the potential for demonstration resulted in a preemptive security lockdown that left conspicuously quiet normally bustling cities.
