Tanzania bans political gatherings over fears of planned protests

Tanzania bans political gatherings over fears of planned protests
Tanzania bans political gatherings over fears of planned protests - Tanzania Home Affairs Minister Patrobas Katambi (standing) during a past briefing. (Photo: Ministry of Home Affairs Tanzania)
Tanzania Home Affairs Minister Patrobas Katambi (standing) during a past briefing. (Photo: Ministry of Home Affairs Tanzania)

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Katambi made the announcement in response to a question from a Member of Parliament (MP) on the government’s knowledge of and preparedness for the alleged demonstrations.

Public political gatherings have been suspended across Tanzania, affecting all political parties, including the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), after authorities moved to block all rallies ahead of the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF), citing concerns over possible unrest linked to online calls for demonstrations.
The directive was issued on Friday in Parliament by Home Affairs Minister Patrobas Katambi, who also announced that no permits would be issued for political rallies and that security operations would be heightened nationwide.
Katambi made the announcement in response to a question from a Member of Parliament (MP) on the government’s knowledge of and preparedness for the alleged demonstrations.

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“I am directing Inspector General of Police Camillus Wambura to instruct all Regional Police Commanders, who will in turn direct district and ward police commanders, to strengthen coordination and the implementation of security plans,” Katambi said, according to The Citizen.
The decision, the minister added, is aimed at protecting economic activity during the DITF, also known as Sabasaba, which takes place annually on June 28. The trade fair draws exhibitors and visitors from within and outside the country. This year's event, the 50th Sabasaba trade fair, will run until July 13, 2026.
“This is a time for citizens to focus on building the country’s economy. We must ensure that Tanzanians, businesspeople, and investors can continue their activities peacefully and without disruption,” Katambi said.

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He added that security agencies had been ordered to closely monitor online platforms for content linked to mobilisation efforts and potential incitement of violence, noting that no group had taken responsibility for organising any demonstrations.
Some of the online messages are calling for constitutional reforms and the release of opposition leader Tundu Lissu.
Individuals suspected of using social media platforms to incite unrest will also be questioned as part of preventive security measures, according to Katambi.
It remains unclear how long the ban will remain in place, but the move comes despite constitutional provisions that guarantee political parties the right to hold public meetings, raising questions about the balance between security measures and political freedoms.

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