Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – Following widespread protests in Tanzania’s largest city, Dar es Salaam, on October 25, 2025, police have declared an evening curfew after hundreds of young people took to the streets to express their grievances over the general election held earlier in the day. Despite heavy security, including military presence and tanks stationed at key junctions, the protests escalated, culminating in the burning of a police station.
What Happened
Tensions in Dar es Salaam erupted on Wednesday, October 25, as protests over the general election turned violent. The protests, led by hundreds of young people, were sparked by widespread dissatisfaction with the election process and the political environment surrounding the elections. Protesters expressed their frustrations with the Tanzanian government’s handling of the election, leading to confrontations with security forces.
In one of the most significant developments, a group of protesters burned down a police station located along Nelson Mandela Road, a major route leading to Dar es Salaam’s port. Internet watchdog NetBlocks reported a “nationwide disruption to internet connectivity,” signaling the government’s efforts to curb online activity amid the unrest.
In response to the escalating violence, Police Chief Camillus Wambura declared a curfew for Dar es Salaam on the national broadcaster TBC, ordering the public to be indoors by 6 p.m. He also announced that military and police officers would be patrolling the streets to restore order.
Election Context and Political Climate
The presidential election on October 25, 2025, saw President Samia Suluhu Hassan, 65, run for re-election alongside 16 other candidates, including Tundu Lissu and Luhaga Mpina. However, Lissu, Hassan’s main challenger, is currently on trial for treason, facing the death penalty, and his party, Chadema, has been barred from participating in the election. Mpina, another notable candidate, was disqualified on technicalities. This political landscape has contributed to growing tensions in the country.
Despite these challenges, President Hassan had promised there would be “no election day security threat” during a rally, assuring the public that the security forces were fully prepared. “Those who have failed to participate in the competition should not seek to disrupt our election,” she said.
Zanzibar Remains Calm
While Dar es Salaam was gripped by violence and unrest, the situation in the semi-autonomous island of Zanzibar remained much calmer, with AFP journalists reporting no significant disturbances. The contrast in the level of unrest between mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar highlights the regional variations in the election’s impact.
What Happens Next
The government’s imposition of the curfew in Dar es Salaam and the crackdown on protests indicate the seriousness with which the authorities are responding to the unrest. The curfew will likely remain in place until the government can ensure public safety and stabilize the situation. As the election process continues, the response from President Hassan’s administration and the international community will play a critical role in determining the future political climate in Tanzania.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
Tanzania’s election and the ensuing protests in Dar es Salaam have brought attention to the country’s political tensions, especially in light of the exclusion of key opposition candidates. As the situation develops, the government’s ability to maintain control while ensuring the safety and rights of citizens will be tested.
