A significant security presence has been deployed across Tanzania with officers and soldiers observed on patrol in key urban areas ahead of expected demonstrations against the government called to coincide with independence day.
As of noon, however, no protests had materialized.
Residents in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya, Mwanza reported an unusually slow start to the day, with many people choosing to remain indoors amid uncertainty over if the demonstrations would proceed.
The demonstrations were called to demand political reforms following October's post-election unrest which left an unknown number of people dead.
Officials have conceded using force against protesters, claiming that certain elements aimed to topple the government.
Correspondents noted on Tuesday streets that were largely deserted in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam. This stood in sharp contrast to the city's typical weekday activity.
While quiet, a palpable tension filled the air.
Security vehicles were seen driving along primary thoroughfares and junctions, while officers took up positions at strategic locations, particularly near important public buildings and facilities.
Through online platforms, organizers advised followers to remain vigilant, implying that any protest activity would likely commence later in the day. The messaging echoed previous protest calls in Tanzania, when participation grew as the day progressed.
Drivers who went out experienced frequent checks at roadblocks, where police interrogated motorists about where they were headed.
Authorities have not provided specific statements on the heightened security measures or on the planned protests.
Tanzanian authorities have banned the planned protests and called off independence anniversary events, urging citizens to stay indoors.
"An eerie quiet masks the underlying tension felt by those indoors."
The day's events painted a picture of a country under strain, where the threat of protest led to a preemptive security lockdown that left conspicuously quiet typically busy cities.
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