Tanzania's Streets Remain Quiet Amid Anti-Government Protests

Wed Dec 10 2025 01:47:17 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A heightened security presence in major Tanzanian cities has left streets deserted, as authorities crack down on planned anti-government protests coinciding with independence celebrations.

In Tanzania, a significant police and military presence has led to deserted streets as residents choose to stay at home, amid the potential for unrest following recent political turbulence. Authorities have banned demonstrations initiated to demand political reforms after a series of violent post-election incidents. While no protests had occurred by midday, the atmosphere remains tense, with street patrols and roadblocks observed across the country.

Security has been tightened across Tanzania with police and military seen patrolling major cities ahead of anticipated anti-government protests that were called to coincide with independence day. By midday local time (09:00 GMT), however, no demonstrations had begun.

Residents in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya, Mwanza, and several other urban centers reported an unusually slow start to the day, with many people choosing to remain indoors due to uncertainty about the protests. The demonstrations were planned to demand political reforms in the wake of October's unrest, which left an unknown number of people dead.

The authorities have acknowledged using force against protesters, asserting that some groups intended to overthrow the regime. On Tuesday, BBC reporters observed nearly empty streets in Dar es Salaam, contrasting sharply with the usual weekday bustle. Despite the quiet, the atmosphere remained tense.

Police spokesperson David Misime assured the public of their safety while urging citizens to disregard old images and videos circulating online that falsely suggest protests are already taking place.

Security vehicles were seen on major roads and key public infrastructure. Activists and campaigners on social media indicated that demonstrations might begin later in the day, reminiscent of past protests when turnout often increased as the afternoon progressed.

A local Arusha resident expressed their resolve to protest but acknowledged the heavy police presence, while another resident in Mwanza expressed concern for their family's safety amid the uncertainty surrounding the protests. Motorists reported frequent checks at roadblocks, where officers questioned drivers about their destinations.

The government has not commented extensively on the increased security measures or the planned protests but has outright banned these demonstrations and advised citizens to remain indoors. In Kenya, several activists advocating for Tanzania were arrested during a solidarity protest outside the Tanzanian high commission in Nairobi.