The Tanzanian government has directed all public servants across the country to work from home following a security advisory issued by the national police after widespread protests in Dar es Salaam over the ongoing general elections.
In a public notice released on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Tanzanian government spokesman Gerson Msigwa said the directive takes effect on Thursday, October 30, 2025.
“Following the security advisory issued by the Police Force to residents of Dar es Salaam, the government directs that tomorrow, October 30, 2025, all public servants nationwide work from home, except those whose duties require them to be physically present at their workstations as directed by their employers,” he said in a post on Instagram.
The government also advised employers in the private sector to consider the same precautions for the safety of their workers.
“Private sector employers are advised to take into account this caution and allow their employees to work from home,” the statement continued.
Citizens who are not required to travel were also urged to remain indoors and conduct their activities from home.
The move comes hours after police imposed a curfew in Dar es Salaam following violent demonstrations by opposition supporters demanding electoral reforms and free political space.
Police fired tear gas to disperse crowds that had gathered along major highways. Protesters reportedly lit fires, vandalized buses, and damaged public infrastructure, including several bus terminals.
Several people were injured during the clashes, while others were arrested.
Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Alfred Chalamila had earlier warned that the government would take firm action against anyone threatening peace in the city.
“The government will not tolerate acts that disrupt public order. Those involved in criminal activities will face the full force of the law,” he stated.
Meanwhile, internet watchdog NetBlocks confirmed a “nationwide disruption to internet connectivity,” affecting social media platforms and communication networks.
Earlier, police had urged citizens to remain calm and turn out to vote, assuring them of security at polling stations.
The vote comes amid divisions among opposition parties - some boycotting the poll, accusing the process of favouring the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM). This is Tanzania’s seventh general election since the return of multiparty democracy in 1992.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Africa’s only female head of state, is seeking a new term as 17 candidates vie for the presidency.
More than 37 million registered voters are eligible to cast their ballots in the presidential and parliamentary election.
Sixteen fringe parties, none of whom have historically had significant public support, have been cleared to contest against President Samia, who is seeking a second term.
The only other serious contender, Luhaga Mpina of the ACT-Wazalendo party, was disqualified on legal technicalities.
