Tanzanian police have declared nationwide demonstrations planned for Monday 9 December illegal and say any attempt to hold them will be stopped.
Why the Ban?
Police spokesperson David Misime said:
- No official notice was given by organisers
- Social media calls urged people to seize property, block roads and disrupt hospitals
- The goal appears to be economic paralysis
Rooted in Disputed Election
The protest ban follows last month’s presidential election. President Samia Suluhu Hassan won by a huge margin after the main opposition candidates were disqualified. Protests that erupted afterward were met with heavy force. Rights groups say hundreds died; the government insists the numbers are inflated.
President Hassan Issues Warning
Speaking Tuesday, President Hassan said: “We know another protest is being planned. Whenever they come, we are ready.”
International Concern Grows
- The United States is reviewing its relationship with Tanzania over free speech and civilian safety issues
- Several Western countries have raised similar worries
The Foreign Ministry asked for patience, saying local measures are already in place to fix the problems.
What Happens Next?
Security forces are on high alert. Activists insist they will go ahead despite the ban.
Tanzania could face another round of serious unrest.
