Keypoints:
- PM urges stay-home on independence day
- UN says hundreds likely killed
- Police declare protests illegal
TANZANIA’S prime minister has urged citizens to remain at home on December 9, the country’s independence day, as activists prepare nationwide protests over what the United Nations describes as deadly violence linked to the disputed October elections. Demonstrations are expected in major cities after weeks of online mobilisation and growing international concern over Tanzania’s political climate.
The UN believes hundreds of people ‘were likely killed’ when security forces confronted crowds protesting the exclusion of leading opposition candidates from the ballot. President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with nearly 98 per cent of votes, a result opposition groups say reflects a deeply compromised process.
Government appeals for calm
The government has acknowledged that people died during post-election unrest but has declined to release its own figures. Senior officials have rejected allegations that police used excessive force, insisting officers acted within the law to prevent what they describe as attempts to destabilise the state.
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba moved to head off the planned demonstrations by advising citizens to stay at home and mark independence day quietly. In a video posted on the Government Information Centre’s X account on Monday, Nchemba framed the holiday as a moment for rest rather than public gatherings.
‘The government advises all citizens who will not have an emergency on December 9 to use the day for rest and celebrate it at home, except for those whose work duties require them to be at their work stations,’ he said.
The decision to cancel official celebrations was announced shortly after calls for demonstrations circulated widely on social media.
Police warn protests are illegal
Police have taken a hard line. On Friday, the force declared any protest action illegal, arguing that organisers had not submitted formal notice as required by Tanzanian law. Officers warned that gatherings would be dispersed and that organisers could face charges.
Witnesses in Dar es Salaam and Arusha told Reuters that large deployments of police and army units were visible along key roads, including near known rally points. Checkpoints and patrols appeared heavier than usual in the run-up to the holiday.
Inquiry launched, criticism remains
President Hassan has appointed a commission to investigate election-related violence, but she has repeatedly denied that the security forces acted improperly. She has accused some protesters of seeking to topple the government and defended police actions as necessary to protect national stability.
Critics argue that the inquiry lacks independence and fails to address systemic concerns raised by human rights groups. Opposition leaders say investigations must include testimony from families of victims, legal experts and international observers if the findings are to be credible.
International pressure grows
Last week, the United States said it was reviewing its relationship with Tanzania amid concerns over violence against civilians, religious freedom, media rights and barriers to investment. Washington’s statement marks a notable shift in tone towards a country long seen as a stable regional actor.
Diplomatic observers say the latest tensions could complicate Tanzania’s efforts to attract investment into sectors such as mining and infrastructure, while also raising questions about its governance model. International organisations, including the UN, have called for thorough investigations and accountability.
Activists say protests will continue unless the government commits to political reforms, greater transparency and respect for civil liberties. With the nation’s independence day approaching, the stay-home call reflects official efforts to avoid another confrontation on the streets — but underlying grievances remain unresolved.
