The protests, which began in Dar es Salaam before spreading to Arusha and Dodoma, have sent shockwaves through the ruling establishment, with security forces on high alert ahead of Thursday’s General Election.
According to viral clips shared online, groups of young protesters were seen chanting pro-reform slogans and waving placards demanding fairness, jobs, and transparency in the upcoming vote.
The scenes, now circulating widely on social media, have drawn parallels with the 2023 Kenyan Gen Z protests that shook the political class. A video shared here https://www.facebook.com/reel/1744188052907496/ shows hundreds of youth marching peacefully through city streets before police arrived to disperse them.
The sudden eruption of youth anger is believed to have been fueled by growing frustration over unemployment, high living costs, and fears of electoral manipulation.
Many young Tanzanians have accused political elites of ignoring their voices and recycling old faces in leadership while the economy remains stagnant. Political analysts say the demonstrations mark a new wave of civic awakening in Tanzania, one that could redefine how elections are conducted in the region.
Observers have noted that the protests are largely leaderless but highly organized online, echoing the digital resistance that made Kenya’s Gen Z movement globally recognized.
Authorities have, however, warned against any attempt to disrupt the election, with police vowing to maintain order “at all costs.” Reports from the ground indicate increased military patrols in key areas as tension continues to mount across major towns.
With polling stations set to open in less than 24 hours, the government faces a delicate balancing act between maintaining peace and respecting citizens’ right to express themselves. What started as a youth cry for justice could easily evolve into a defining moment for Tanzania’s democracy.
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Politics