Security forces in Dar es Salaam have dispersed groups of young protesters attempting to stage an unauthorized demonstration in Kimara Kibo, an area situated between Ubungo and Kimara, as Tanzanians headed to the polls on Wednesday.
Witnesses said the crowd began assembling near Resurrection and Life Church, which was recently shut down. The church is associated with Bishop Josephat Gwajima, a former legislator under the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, known for his outspoken criticism of government excesses and human rights violations.
According to reports, officers were deployed in large numbers after the gathering was deemed illegal. The situation prompted a brief confrontation before the area was cleared.
At the same time, Net Blocks, a global internet watchdog, reported significant internet disruptions nationwide, a move that many Tanzanians viewed as an attempt to restrict information flow during voting.
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Authorities later announced a curfew beginning at 6:00 p.m., urging residents to remain indoors to maintain “peace and public order.” Security vehicles were seen patrolling Morogoro Road, a key highway linking Dar es Salaam to the country’s central regions.
Political analysts say the attempted protest underscores growing frustration among sections of Tanzania’s youth and civil rights activists who have been demanding greater political openness and reform. Such public defiance remains rare in Tanzania, where protests are often met with tight security control.
Meanwhile, voting proceeded across the country. President Samia Suluhu Hassan, representing the CCM, is seeking a second term in office. She cast her ballot in Chamwino, in the capital city Dodoma, while her running mate Emmanuel John Nchimbi voted in Kilimani.
Opposition candidate Saum Rashid of the United Democratic Party (UDP) voted in Dar es Salaam, expressing satisfaction with the election process.
“If I win, I’ll be grateful; if I don’t, I will respect the will of the people,” Rashid told journalists after voting.
She added that she believed the National Electoral Commission would “handle the process transparently and deliver credible results.”
Seventeen candidates are vying for the presidency, and the electoral body has indicated that official results are expected within 72 hours.
