The United States has issued new safety guidelines to its citizens in Tanzania as nationwide protests continue for a second day, with reports of violence and a widespread internet shutdown.
In a statement on Thursday, the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam said the demonstrations, linked to Tanzania’s ongoing presidential and parliamentary elections, have led to roadblocks and clashes in several parts of the country.
“National presidential and parliamentary elections in Tanzania are ongoing. There are reports of country-wide demonstrations resulting in outbreaks of violence and roadblocks. Some major roads, including the main road to Julius Nyerere International Airport, are closed,” the embassy said.
The embassy added that a “widespread internet blackout” was making communication difficult and advised U.S. citizens to remain cautious.
Americans in the country have been urged to: avoid demonstrations and crowded places, keep a low profile, monitor local media for updates, and stay aware of their surroundings.
This latest advisory follows an earlier alert issued on Wednesday, when protests first broke out. At the time, the U.S. Embassy advised its staff to shelter in place and encouraged citizens to stay indoors while security forces responded to the unrest.
The demonstrations coincide with a tense election in which President Samia Suluhu Hassan and the ruling CCM party are expected to retain power. The main opposition leader is currently in jail on treason charges, which he denies. His party has boycotted the vote, claiming the process is neither free nor fair.
On Wednesday, the government reportedly imposed a night curfew in several areas. However, protests have continued, with local reports indicating that both civilians and police officers have been killed in the clashes.
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