The United Kingdom’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has issued a security alert regarding Tanzania, cautioning its citizens to stay safe during planned anti-government protests.
The April 26 protests have been banned by authorities even though the Tanzanian activist behind it, U.S.-based Mange Kimambi, insists the nationwide protests will go ahead as planned.
The FCO’s foreign travel advice of April 23, cautioned against political gatherings out of concerns they could get confrontational. The advisory cited a recent incident in which a passer-by was hit and killed by a bullet during protests.
“Political demonstrations across Tanzania are possible on 26 April 2018 (Union Day). Previous political demonstrations have resulted in fatalities and the police may use tear gas and/or live ammunition.
“You should take care, be aware of your surroundings and avoid large crowds or public demonstrations. Make sure you have a means of communication with you at all times and monitor local media for updates, the advice added.
It stressed that even though most of the estimated 75,000 British nationals who visit Tanzania annually have incident-free trips, there was an increase in criminal activities across the East African nation, hence the need to beef us personal security at all times.
The banned protests are specifically against the style of leadership of President John Pombe Magufuli, who is increasingly accused of dictatorial use of his executive powers.
According to local media reports, arrests have been made by police in relation to person associated with planning for the banned protests.
Among other things that are said to be banned across the country include opposition meetings and protests and those that defy are clamped down by the police.
In the latest media clampdown, bloggers are expected to register their blogs by dishing out around $900.
Magufuli who came to power in 2015 has, however, been lauded in the area of anti-corruption and public service delivery. He has fired close allies and heads of utility agencies for failure to protect public interest.
