Tanzania Crackdown on Planned Demonstration Results in City Centers Deserted.
Security has been tightened throughout the country with officers and soldiers observed on patrol in major cities in anticipation of anticipated anti-government protests called to coincide with the nation's independence anniversary.
As of noon, however, no protests had materialized.
People living in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya, Mwanza noted the day began with unusual quietness, with many people choosing to remain indoors due to doubts about if the demonstrations would proceed.
The demonstrations were called to demand political reforms in the wake of the unrest that followed last October's elections which left an unknown number of people dead.
Authorities Admit Employing Force
The authorities have admitted employing force against demonstrators, asserting that some groups were attempting to overthrow the regime.
Correspondents noted on Tuesday nearly empty streets in the business hub, Dar es Salaam. This stood in sharp contrast to the city's usual weekday bustle.
Although quiet, the atmosphere remained tense.
Heightened Security 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.
Drivers who went out experienced frequent checks at roadblocks, where police interrogated motorists about their destinations.
Official Position and Bans
Authorities have not provided detailed comments on the heightened security measures or on the scheduled demonstrations.
The government has prohibited the planned protests and called off independence anniversary events, advising the public to remain at home.
"An eerie quiet masks the underlying tension felt by those indoors."
The overall situation painted a picture of a nation on edge, where the threat of protest led to a preemptive security lockdown that effectively emptied typically busy cities.
