Will Tanzania’s fragile democracy withstand another wave of political unrest? Violent protests broke out in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday as anger spread over an election widely expected to return President Samia Suluhu Hassan to power following the disqualification of leading opposition candidates. The protests, which erupted in several neighbourhoods of the commercial capital, quickly turned chaotic, with reports of clashes between demonstrators and security forces.
According to Jocomms correspondents and eyewitness accounts, hundreds of protesters marched toward the Selander Bridge leading to the city centre, chanting anti-government slogans and demanding free and fair elections. Social media footage—yet to be independently verified—showed young demonstrators throwing stones at security personnel and a petrol station engulfed in flames. Monitor group NetBlocks confirmed widespread internet disruptions across Tanzania, a move observers say was aimed at curbing the spread of protest footage and mobilization online.
Video from BBC Swahili showed police deploying tear gas to disperse crowds in at least four areas of Dar es Salaam. Government and police spokespersons have yet to issue official statements regarding the unrest. As tensions mount and communication lines remain restricted, many are asking—how far will Tanzania’s citizens go to reclaim their democratic voice? Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
