The Tanzanian government has imposed a night curfew in Dar es Salaam following widespread unrest and demonstrations during the country’s tense general elections.
According to regional police commander Jumanne Muliro, the curfew began at 6:00 p.m., though authorities did not disclose when it would end. The order came as security forces struggled to contain growing street protests by opposition supporters.
Dar es Salaam regional commissioner Alfred Chalamila warned that law enforcement would respond firmly to anyone attempting to disrupt public order, saying that “the power used to control unrest will far exceed that used to provoke it.”
Meanwhile, multiple reports, including those from local journalists, confirmed that internet services were blocked nationwide, cutting off communication platforms during the voting process.
The election day saw low voter turnout, with many citizens staying away from polling stations due to tension and fear of clashes. Opposition groups, particularly the Chadema Party, boycotted the vote after their leader Tundu Lissu was detained, calling the polls “one-sided and unfair.”
Police fired tear gas in several cities to disperse demonstrators demanding electoral reforms. Security forces increased patrols in major urban centers, including Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, and Arusha.
The Independent National Electoral Commission announced that official results will be released within three days after voting concluded.
Analysts warn that the government’s hardline response and communication blackout could further deepen political divisions and damage public trust in Tanzania’s democratic institutions.