DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — Heavy police deployment and lingering memories of last year’s deadly post-election violence have cast uncertainty over planned protests in Tanzania, with many residents fearing a fresh crackdown despite calls for demonstrations demanding political reforms and accountability.
Security officers armed with riot-control equipment were deployed across Dar es Salaam on Monday ahead of July 7, a date traditionally associated with the founding of the Tanganyika African National Union (TANU), the movement that led the country’s independence struggle and later evolved into the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).
While one police officer described the deployment as routine exercises, the heightened security presence follows the government’s ban on political gatherings and repeated warnings against public demonstrations.
Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila recently warned that any previous use of force “was just a taste of what is to come,” remarks that have heightened anxiety among opposition supporters and civil society groups.
Memories of deadly election violence
The atmosphere has been shaped by memories of the violence that followed Tanzania’s October 2025 General Election, when protests erupted after opposition candidates were barred from contesting in several races and allegations of abductions and attacks against government critics emerged.
Human rights organisations and opposition parties have alleged that security forces were responsible for widespread killings during the unrest, with some groups claiming the death toll reached into the thousands.
The Tanzanian government has acknowledged that 518 people died during the unrest but has not attributed responsibility for the deaths.
One Dar es Salaam resident, identified only as Teresia for fear of reprisals, said she lost her 24-year-old brother, who was reportedly shot after being accused of participating in demonstrations.
“I’m scared, and I’ve lost hope. I don’t know when things will get better or when we’ll see a brighter future,” she said.
She added that reports of disappearances and abductions have left many Tanzanians living in fear.
Opposition raises concerns
Despite calls by activists for demonstrations demanding accountability and constitutional reforms, many residents doubt large-scale protests will occur because of the extensive police deployment.
Opposition leaders have accused the government of shrinking democratic space ahead of future political contests.
Dorothy Semu, leader of the ACT-Wazalendo party, described the ban on political rallies as unconstitutional and said the country needed dialogue and national healing rather than further restrictions.
Meanwhile, Chadema Deputy Chairperson John Heche alleged that opposition officials remain under constant surveillance by security personnel.
The party’s leader, Tundu Lissu, has remained in custody since April 2025 after being charged with treason, an offence that carries the death penalty under Tanzanian law. His prosecution has drawn concern from regional and international human rights organisations, while the government maintains that the legal process is being conducted in accordance with the law.
Calls for accountability
Critics say the government’s promised investigation into the violence surrounding the 2025 election has yet to produce a public report or establish accountability for those killed or injured.
Opposition leaders continue to demand an independent inquiry, justice for victims and broader constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening political freedoms.
The Tanzanian government has consistently defended its security measures as necessary to maintain public order and has rejected allegations that it is targeting political opponents.
As the country marks July 7, uncertainty remains over whether planned demonstrations will proceed amid heightened security and widespread fears of renewed violence.