The Tanzanian Crackdown on Scheduled Protest Results in City Centers Unusually Quiet.
Security has been tightened throughout the country with officers and soldiers observed on patrol in major cities ahead of anticipated anti-government protests scheduled for independence day.
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 whether protests would happen.
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 Use of Force
The authorities have admitted employing force against demonstrators, asserting that some groups were attempting to overthrow the regime.
On Tuesday, reporters observed streets that were largely deserted 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, 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 past mobilization efforts in the country, when participation grew as the day progressed.
Motorists who ventured out reported regular stops at security checkpoints, where police interrogated motorists about where they were headed.
Government Stance and Bans
The government has not issued specific statements on the heightened security measures or on the scheduled demonstrations.
The government has prohibited the intended demonstrations and cancelled independence day celebrations, urging citizens to stay indoors.
"With many staying at home the atmosphere is quiet but tense."
The day's events depicted a country under strain, where the potential for demonstration led to a security clampdown in advance that effectively emptied typically busy cities.
