Home Affairs Minister George Boniface Simbachawene has cautioned the public against taking part in demonstrations reportedly planned for Tuesday, December 9, 2025, stressing that the gatherings are illegal and will be contained by security agencies should they occur.
Addressing reporters in Dar es Salaam on Monday, December 8, the minister urged Tanzanians to distance themselves from the planned activities, noting that they lack legal authorisation and come at a time when indicators of unrest and criminal behaviour are on the rise.
Mr Simbachawene said the demonstrations being circulated on social media raise serious concerns, as there is no information about the organisers, procedural compliance or the designated routes.
“These so-called peaceful demonstrations have no identifiable applicant, no approved procedure and no clear location. What is being claimed is that they will have no limit and will be larger than those held on the 29th,” he said.
He recalled the violence that erupted during previous unlawful assemblies, where properties were damaged, fuel stations and government buildings were set ablaze, police stations were attacked and lives were lost.
He said the suggestion that the upcoming protests may be “bigger” than those incidents is a clear warning sign.
“These cannot be considered demonstrations. They have no legal permit, and it is unclear who is behind them,” he stressed.
The minister reminded the public that under Tanzanian law, demonstrations must have a clear organiser, a specific message, a defined purpose and a planned route to allow the Police Force to provide security and manage the procession safely. He said none of these conditions have been met.
Mr Simbachawene confirmed that the December 9 protests are illegal and will not be tolerated.
He appealed to those attempting to disrupt the country’s peace to abide by the law, warning that security and defence organs are prepared to take action in line with legal provisions to maintain order and protect citizens.
