The Government has cautioned Tanzanians particularly the youth against participating in fresh demonstrations reportedly planned for December 9, with the Minister for Home Affairs, George Boniface Simbachawene, insisting that authorities will not allow a repeat of the violence witnessed during and after the October 29, 2025 General Election.
Speaking on Friday night during a peace event at the Kumbilamoto Nyama Choma Market in Vingunguti, Ilala District, the Minister said the country is still grappling with the aftermath of last month’s unrest, which resulted in loss of life, destruction of public and private property, and disruption of economic activities.
Simbachawene said intelligence reports indicate preparations for new protests, warning that the Government will act firmly to protect public order.
He urged citizens not to allow themselves to be mobilised into violence or used to advance agendas that threaten national stability.
He pointed to the heavy cost of the October 29 incidents, including the burning of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) stations projects designed to support low-income commuters.
He stressed that such infrastructure is funded through taxes and loans that future generations will have to repay.
“Tanzania enjoys long-standing peace, and it is a foundation we must protect. Our progress has attracted admiration and even envy, but we cannot afford to undermine the stability that has defined our nation for decades,” he said.
The Minister also drew comparisons with neighbouring countries that have experienced prolonged conflict, saying Tanzania must learn from their challenges.
Earlier on Friday, he chaired a tripartite meeting between Tanzania, Burundi and UNHCR to discuss the repatriation of Burundian refugees who have lived in the country for nearly 40 years.
“We are exploring ways to ensure they return home because the conditions for refugee status no longer exist. If refugees are reluctant to leave and we, on the other hand, fail to value and protect our peace, then we will be the ones to blame. We can see what is happening elsewhere,” he said.
Simbachawene further called for stronger cooperation between citizens and the Police Force, emphasising that officers are part of the community and have a mandate to ensure the safety of people and property.
“The police and the public are one family. Their role is to protect citizens, and they should be seen as partners. We must not be divided from them,” he said, adding that the Government is committed to strengthening a policing approach that builds trust and friendship with the public.