Tanzania is witnessing widespread calls for protests today, December 9, coinciding with Independence Day, in rejection of the October election results, the subsequent crackdown, and demands for President Samia Suluhu Hassan to step down—despite an official ban on public gatherings.
Authorities have deployed large security forces across several cities and introduced precautionary measures, including urging fuel stations to limit sales to hinder the movement of protesters — steps described by human rights groups as attempts to prevent any popular mobilization.
The protest calls are spreading under the hashtag #D9, launched by young activists aged 16 to 30 on social media platforms and encrypted apps, aiming to turn Independence Day into a political day of action.
Public anger stems from the 29 October presidential election, in which the incumbent president was declared the winner with 98% of the vote — a result rejected by the opposition and questioned by international observers.
Rights organizations report that more than 1,000 people were killed and thousands arrested in the crackdown that followed earlier protests — allegations denied by the government.
The United Nations and the United States have expressed concern over rising tensions and the risk of renewed violence in the country.
