The United States Embassy in Tanzania issued a warning for American citizens to stay indoors after protests swept the nation on Wednesday, sullying an election day already predisposed with tension and uncertainty.
It issued a security advisory wherein the embassy alerted about demonstrations in “several locations,” and even members of the U.S. government employees were ordered to seek shelter. “We remind American citizens to remain vigilant, avoid crowds, and keep an ear to local news,” the advisory concluded.
Across Tanzania, streets were awash with protests as hundreds of young people poured into the streets to express anger at what they see as a tightly controlled election in favor of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Suluhu, who is the country’s first female president, is tightly projected to secure a second term after opposition candidate Tundu Lissu was arrested and his party boycotted the poll, declaring it was not free and fair.
Demonstrators in the capital city, Dodoma, chanted slogans calling for “true democracy,” as Dar es Salaam witnessed billows of dense smoke rising over parts of the city as protesters fought with police. Witnesses had reported running battles, roadblocks, and an atmosphere of fear creeping into neighborhoods nervously.
“I have never seen anything like this,” Kariakoo shopkeeper Joseph said, hastily closing up shop. “They are angry, but they are also scared. The police are everywhere.”
The authorities, meanwhile, have vowed to restore order. Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Alfred Chalamila warned that any attempts to “disturb the election process” would meet with severe action.
The protests occurred while internet monitors described as a “digital blackout.” Internet monitor NetBlocks said three of the largest internet providers had blocked access nationwide, isolating many Tanzanians from social media and messaging platforms.
The shutdown has intensified outrage, making citizens unable to report news or communicate freely.
The U.S. Embassy has made emergency contact information available and requested Americans residing in Tanzania to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) in order to receive updates.
The night was calm after dark in Dar es Salaam, as fewer individuals circulated but tension hung in the air. The distant howling of sirens still echoed a reminder of the country under siege as votes are counted and the world holds its breath.
