The government of President Samia Suluhu Hassan has issued a stern warning following reports of planned nationwide demonstrations by sections of the opposition in Tanzania.
The statement, released on 5 December 2025 by the Tanzania Police Force, comes amid growing political tension and accusations from opposition figures that the government is shrinking democratic space claims government officials have consistently denied.
According to the public notice from the office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), authorities say the overall security situation in the country remains stable and continues to improve daily.
The police praised citizens and various stakeholders for their cooperation in maintaining peace across the nation, emphasizing that stability remains a top priority for the government.
However, the statement warned that intelligence reports had revealed “ongoing mobilization and incitement” on social media and within certain groups encouraging people to take part in what police termed unlawful and indefinite demonstrations starting 9 December 2025. Authorities said such activities violate Tanzanian laws governing public gatherings.
The police referenced the Police Force and Auxiliary Police Act, as amended in 2023, particularly Section 43(1), which outlines procedures for organizing public assemblies.
Under the law, any individual planning a public meeting, procession, or demonstration must submit a written notification to the designated area police supervisor.
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The notice must include the location of the planned event, the time it will be held, and its overall purpose. According to the police, organizers of the planned demonstrations failed to meet these legal requirements.
“As stated earlier, there is coordination aimed at organizing and promoting illegal assemblies,” the letter warned, adding that law enforcement agencies will continue to take appropriate measures against anyone attempting to proceed with such activities. Citizens were urged to remain calm and ignore calls for protests that do not comply with the law.
The statement further assured Tanzanians that security agencies are working closely with other national security bodies to uphold peace and protect public safety.
The police reiterated their commitment to facilitating lawful gatherings, provided that organizers respect established procedures.
The warning comes at a time when the opposition has accused the government of using security agencies to suppress dissent a charge officials dismiss as politically motivated.
Notably, tensions have been heightened by the detention of prominent opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who faces charges related to alleged incitement.
As the situation continues to unfold, the police have firmly maintained that any attempts to launch unauthorized protests will be met with decisive legal action.
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