The US Embassy in Tanzania has issued a nationwide security alert warning its citizens of ongoing demonstrations in multiple locations across the country.

The advisory released on October 29, urged Americans to avoid demonstrations and crowds as security services respond to unrest.

According to the embassy, the demonstrations have spread across various regions, prompting US government personnel in Tanzania to shelter in place at their residences until further notice.

“There are reports of ongoing demonstrations in multiple locations. Security services are responding,” the embassy said in its public notice. “US Government personnel are advised to shelter in place at their residences.”

The alert listed several safety measures for US citizens and residents in Tanzania, including maintaining a low profile, monitoring local media for updates, and being aware of their surroundings.

It also provided contact information for the US Embassy in Dar es Salaam and the State Department’s Consular Affairs office in Washington, D.C.

The Embassy have directed Americans to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time security updates and emergency alerts.

The mission also encouraged citizens to follow its social media pages on Facebook and X for ongoing advisories.

It’s Embassy is located along Old Bagamoyo Road in Msasani, remains operational but is advising limited movement for its staff.

Travelers and residents are being urged to avoid affected areas until normalcy returns.

Political context & key issues

The leading opposition parties have been largely sidelined ahead of the vote.

The main opposition party CHADEMA has had its candidates barred and its leader Tundu Lissu is detained facing treason charges.

With the opposition excluded, many voters perceived the ballot as a foregone conclusion for incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan of the ruling party.

Low turnout was reported, especially among younger voters who described the election as a “one-horse race”.

Human rights organisations have raised alarm at what they describe as a climate of fear: enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and harsh treatment of critics and opposition figures.

This is all that has led to the now ongoing demonstrations in Tanzania.

Protests and Political Disruption

Hundreds of protesters gathered in Dar es Salaam on October 29 marching through multiple neighbourhoods clashing with the security forces as the country held its general elections

In one of the notable moment, protesters burnt a rapid-bus and a petrol station, with security agencies responded by firing tear-gas in areas including Kimara, Ubungo, Magomeni and Kinondoni as well as Tandale.

Meanwhile, the digital surveillance organization NetBlocks was also reporting a countrywide internet outage, which occurred just as the unrest began

More to Follow…