Tanzania Crackdown on Planned Demonstration Results in Streets Unusually Quiet.
Security has been tightened throughout the country with police and military seen patrolling key urban areas in anticipation of anticipated anti-government protests scheduled for the nation's independence anniversary.
Midday arrived without any sign of the planned demonstrations.
People living in several major urban centers reported an unusually slow start to the day, with a large number opting to stay home due to doubts about if the demonstrations would proceed.
The protests were organized to demand political reforms in the wake of October's post-election unrest which resulted in an unconfirmed death toll.
Authorities Admit Use of Force
The authorities have admitted using force against protesters, asserting that certain elements aimed to topple the government.
On Tuesday, reporters observed streets that were largely deserted in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam. This was a stark 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. This communication mirrored previous protest calls in Tanzania, when participation grew as the day progressed.
Drivers who went out experienced 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 heightened security measures or on the planned protests.
Tanzanian authorities have banned the planned protests and cancelled independence day celebrations, advising the public to remain at home.
"The prevailing mood is one of quiet tension as people choose to stay home."
The overall situation depicted a nation on edge, where the potential for demonstration led to a preemptive security lockdown that effectively emptied normally bustling cities.
