Tanzanians rush to buy food as the government urges them to stay indoors during the December 9 protests

• Several Dar es Salaam residents flocked to supermarkets to buy essential goods ahead of the planned protest
• One activist explained to TUKO.co.ke why he would not participate in the protest as security is being strengthened in the country
• The Minister of Internal Affairs issued a warning to the organizers of the protest, while Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba urged citizens to stay inside

Tanzanians are preparing for chaos that can be linked to protest scheduled for Tuesday, December 9.

The day also celebrates 64 years of independence Tanzania.

However, President Samia Suluhu postponed the official ceremony, ordering that funds allocated for the event be directed to infrastructure projects destroyed during the October protests.

Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba also urged citizens to avoid the protests and instead celebrate Independence Day peacefully at home.

“Brothers, President Samia Suluhu Hassan wishes all Tanzanians a happy Independence Day, which is celebrated every December 9. The government advises all citizens who do not have urgent duties to spend the day resting and celebrating at home, except those who are required to be at their workplaces,” he said.

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Why were Tanzanians buying before the protest?

On Sunday, December 8, residents of Dar es Salaam thronged large supermarkets, rushing to buy essential supplies.

Long queues and packed roads were witnessed across the city despite the police declaring the protests illegal.

The increase in demand was due to fears of unrest, possible restrictions, and expected price increases for the festive season.

Speaking exclusively to TUKO.co.ke, human rights activist and voluntary chairman of the Reconciliation Program, Charles Odero, noted that ‘Many Tanzanians still remember the violence of October 29.’

“Many people bought yesterday in Dar es Salaam but for me, I cannot join a protest that has no vision and direction. Instead, I support the participation of peace, dialogue, and reconciliation. Security is already strong. For foreigners, I hope they will take it and stay away from unsafe areas,” he said while expressing the hope that the government and the opposition will meet soon for the change of the country.

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The Tanzanian police force bans the protest planned for December 9

Has security been strengthened in Tanzania?

However, despite these fears, the authorities, including the police force and the regional commissioner of Dar es Salaam, assured citizens that security measures have been strengthened and encouraged calm.

Home Affairs Minister George Simbachawene warned that the planned protest was not just a protest but was tantamount to a rebellion.

“Protests are against the law and are not allowed. Those who are tired of peace or feel that the past sufferings are not enough should know that protests are not allowed. Our security forces will suppress them,” he emphasized.

Simbachawene said that individuals or groups intending to protest to claim their rights must first submit a written request for permission to the government before they are allowed to proceed.

He emphasized that the government has no objection to a lawful protest, stressing that the purpose of the procedure is to ensure that the security and stability of the country is maintained.

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Source: TUKO.co.ke