Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has issued a stern warning to citizens planning to hold protests on the 29th of this month, the same day the country is scheduled to hold its national elections.
In a firm statement, President Samia made it clear that no demonstrations would be tolerated under her leadership, stressing that her government would act decisively against any attempts to disrupt national peace and security.
“Hakuna maandamano yatafanyika ndani ya Tanzania chini ya utawala wangu. Mimi ndiye Amiri Mkuu wa Majeshi. Mkijaribu, mtaona rangi zangu za kweli,” she declared, warning opposition supporters threatening to take to the streets.
The tension arises after reports that several opposition leaders have allegedly been barred from vying in the upcoming elections, sparking outrage and claims of political suppression. Opposition supporters have since taken to social media, mobilizing for what they describe as “a peaceful protest for democracy.”
However, President Samia has maintained that the rule of law must prevail, insisting that the electoral process will continue as planned and that any grievances should be addressed through legal channels, not through street demonstrations.
Political analysts say the growing tension is a major test for Tanzania’s democracy and for Samia Suluhu’s leadership as the first female president in the country’s history. While she has often projected a softer, reformist image compared to her predecessor, this latest statement reflects a tougher stance on security and governance.
As election day draws closer, Tanzanians remain divided — with some supporting the president’s warning as necessary to maintain order, while others view it as a crackdown on freedom of expression and political dissent.
The coming days will reveal whether the government’s strong warning will deter the planned protests or fuel further defiance among opposition supporters who feel shut out of the democratic process.
