Young people living in vulnerable circumstances have distanced themselves from calls for demonstrations planned for July 7, 2026, warning that unrest often leaves society's most disadvantaged groups suffering the greatest consequences.
As some activists and social media users continue to mobilise support for the planned protests online, youths who experienced the violence that erupted on October 29, 2025, say they do not wish to see a repeat of the turmoil that disrupted their lives.
They recalled how the unrest led to food shortages, loss of income, insecurity and lack of shelter, with some of their peers sustaining injuries, suffering permanent disabilities and others losing their lives.
Juma Maftah, a resident of Ilala in Dar es Salaam, said people living on the streets were among the hardest hit during the violence.
"The events of October 29, 2025 created enormous challenges for us. There was no peace, getting food became extremely difficult and finding a place to sleep was a daily struggle for those of us who live outdoors. Some people suffered broken limbs, while others lost their lives," he said.
Maftah urged fellow young people not to be persuaded to engage in violent activities, warning that the consequences could be devastating.
"We should not allow ourselves to be influenced into participating in violence because the results can be imprisonment, disability or even death. Peace is the foundation of everything we do in life," he said.
Another youth, Baraka Richard, said the unrest prevented him from carrying out his daily work of transporting goods at local markets, depriving him of his source of income.
He called on young people across the country to reject calls that could expose them to violence and insecurity, noting that ordinary citizens often bear the heaviest burden whenever public disorder occurs.
"The impact does not end when the violence stops. Many people are left with long-term physical, economic and emotional scars," he said.
A report by a Commission of Inquiry chaired by former Chief Justice Mohamed Othman Chande into the violence that followed the 2025 General Election found that some vulnerable youths operating in bus terminals, marketplaces and other informal settings were allegedly lured into participating in demonstrations through promises of money and employment opportunities.
The report warned against the exploitation of disadvantaged youths for political interests and stressed the need to expand economic opportunities and awareness programmes to protect them from manipulation that could draw them into conflict and violence.
The youths interviewed maintained that preserving peace, creating employment opportunities and strengthening social support systems offer a more sustainable solution to the challenges facing young people than engaging in activities that could threaten stability and public safety.
