Tanzanian police brace for banned Saba Saba protests amid election‑related violence fears

On July 7, Tanzanian authorities warned against a planned "Saba Saba" demonstration in Dar es Salaam, a day historically linked to the country's democratic struggle. Civil‑society groups called for the protest to demand a new constitution and accountability for past political violence, while the government ordered a heavy police deployment and prohibited the gathering. The police presence, including riot‑gear officers, coincides with the International Trade Fair in Dar es Salaam, raising concerns about potential clashes.

The calls for protest come after the October 2025 presidential election was violently suppressed, with official figures reporting more than 500 deaths. Opposition party Chadema has not endorsed the demonstration and is urging the government to guarantee safety and citizens' rights.