The Tanzanian government has requested that all public servants operate from home today, Thursday, 30 October 2025, following a security alert tied to unrest during the election period.
Government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa conveyed this directive on Wednesday evening. In a statement released on Instagram, he noted that the decision was made in light of a warning from the Police Force to the residents of Dar es Salaam after reports of turmoil in some areas of the city.
According to him, all government workers nationwide should work from home, with the exception of those whose jobs necessitate their physical presence at their stations. These employees will keep showing up for work as directed by their managers. “Watumishi wote wa umma nchini wafanyie kazi nyumbani isipokuwa wale ambao majukumu ya ya kazi yanawataka kuwepo katika vituo vyao vya kazi kama ambayvo wataelekezwa na waajiri wao,” he said, referring to the 30th of October 2025.
Election unrest
The announcement was made shortly after the Inspector General of Police, Camillus Wambura, enforced a curfew in Dar es Salaam. Authorities instructed residents to remain indoors starting at 6pm on Wednesday following reports of violent incidents in various locations during the voting process.
Local news indicated that protests erupted in multiple areas of Dar es Salaam, with further unrest observed in Mbeya, Arusha, Songwe, and Shinyanga. Protesters called for transparency in the elections, political freedoms, and electoral reforms.
Law enforcement utilized tear gas to disperse the crowds, resulting in several injuries. Additionally, authorities apprehended a number of individuals suspected of engaging in vandalism and disorderly conduct. Eyewitnesses reported instances of burned tires, damaged public transport vehicles, and traffic disruptions in sections of the commercial capital.
Internet monitoring organizations also reported interruptions to online services, with users experiencing challenges in accessing social media and messaging applications.
