The Tanzanian government Monday urged its citizens to celebrate Independence Day at home.
Only those offering essential services should report to their work stations.
In a statement by Government spokesperson Mussa Azzan Zungu, President Suluhu wished Tanzanians a happy Independence Day on December 9, 2025.
Azzan went on to urge citizens who will not have emergencies on Independence Day to celebrate it at home, resting.
“The government urges all citizens who will have no emergency to spend the day resting. They should celebrate the day at home, apart from those whose work responsibilities need them to be at their work locations as directed,” Azzan said in a press address on Monday.
The Independence Day celebrations in Tanzania have attracted public attention over plans by citizens to hold protests.
Local police have since announced that any protests during Tuesday’s Independence Day would be illegal.
The police spokesperson David Misime said Friday officials had seen the calls on social media.
“No identifiable person has so far submitted formal notification for the planned demonstrations.”
Citing police guidelines, the statement said that “given the unlawful tactics that have surfaced”, the proposed rally “no longer meets the legal requirements to be authorised”.
“Therefore, the Police Force, as of today, bans the planned demonstrations described as peaceful and indefinite,” it said.
Tension remained high in the country amid fears of chaos.
The protests, organized by opposition supporters and scheduled for Tuesday—Tanzania’s Independence Day—were intended to challenge the government’s leadership and alleged governance failures.
The announcement triggered widespread concern, with human rights organizations urging authorities to guarantee the safety of citizens who may still choose to participate.
In Dar es Salaam, major shopping centers experienced a surge in activity as residents rushed to stock up on supplies following a government directive advising the public to remain indoors.
Interior Minister George Simbachawene reiterated the government’s position, stating that Tuesday’s demonstrations are unlawful. Delivering President Suluhu’s message to the nation, Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba called on Tanzanians to stay home unless engaged in essential services.
Meanwhile, Tanzanian police arrested several activists linked to the planned demonstrations, prompting strong condemnation from regional human rights defenders.
Former Makueni governor Kivutha Kibwana criticized the arrests, accusing the administration of sidelining constitutional freedoms and weaponizing state institutions. Other activists warned that the country is facing a deepening human rights crisis.
Rights groups have also accused Tanzanian authorities of previously using excessive force during election-related protests, leading to multiple casualties. They are now urging police to exercise restraint and uphold citizens’ fundamental rights during Tuesday’s events.
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