TANZANIA: Tensions Grow As Independence Day Protests Kick Off
Tensions in Tanzania rose on Monday night when President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration declared planned nationwide rallies illegal.
The rallies, planned by opposition supporters and set for Tuesday, Tanzania’s Independence Day, were intended to call out the government’s leadership and claim governance shortcomings.
The announcement sparked considerable concern, with human rights organizations calling for authorities to ensure the safety of those who may still choose to participate.
Major shopping centers in Dar es Salaam saw an increase in activity as citizens rushed to stock up on goods in response to a government decree recommending that the public stay indoors.
Interior Minister George Simbachawene repeated the government’s position, claiming that Tuesday’s demonstrations were illegal.
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba delivered President Suluhu’s message to the nation, urging Tanzanians to stay at home unless they are providing necessary services.
Meanwhile, Tanzanian authorities arrested numerous activists associated with the planned demonstrations, eliciting sharp condemnation from regional human rights defenders.
Tanzania Government Bans D9 Protest, Advises Citizens to Stay Home, as UN Human Rights Body Calls for Restraint pic.twitter.com/XpFFMeTqFs
— The Chanzo (@TheChanzo) December 8, 2025
Former Kenyan governor Kivutha Kibwana condemned the arrests, accusing the administration of undermining constitutional rights and weaponizing state institutions.
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Other campaigners have warned that the country is experiencing a worsening human rights crisis.
Rights groups have also accused Tanzanian authorities of previously deploying disproportionate force during election-related protests, which resulted in numerous casualties.
#Tanzania: Ahead of protests planned for Independence Day on 9 December, UN Human Rights Office reminds security forces they must refrain from using force to disperse non-violent assemblies and make every effort to de-escalate tensions.https://t.co/TCUGfgGFqU pic.twitter.com/BXAK2nZhYx
— UN Human Rights (@UNHumanRights) December 8, 2025
They are now encouraging police to use restraint and respect residents’ fundamental rights during Tuesday’s events.
Speaking in Mombasa, representatives from Vocal Africa said they will closely monitor the situation, expressing solidarity with Tanzanians as the protests unfold.
TANZANIA: Tensions Grow As Independence Day Protests Kick Off
