The Tanzanian government has directed all public servants to work from home following a security advisory issued by the police after protests erupted during the ongoing general election.
In a statement on Wednesday, October 29, Tanzanian Government Spokesperson Gerson Msigwa said only employees whose duties require their physical presence at the workplace should report to work.
“Following a security advisory issued by the Police Force to residents of Dar es Salaam, the Government directs that tomorrow, October 30, 2025, all public servants in the country shall work from home, except for those whose duties require their physical presence at their workplaces, as instructed by their respective employers,” read the statement in part.
Msigwa also urged employers in the private sector to take precautions and allow their staff to work remotely.
“Additionally, employers in the private sector are advised to observe this precaution and allow their employees to work from home as well,” he stated.
The Tanzanian Government Spokesperson further asked citizens who do not have urgent reasons to leave their homes to remain indoors.
The directive comes after the Tanzanian general election on Wednesday was marred by widespread protests and violence.
The protests erupted across major cities, including Dar es Salaam and Arusha, as millions of Tanzanians went to the polls to elect a new president and members of parliament.
In Dar es Salaam, demonstrators clashed with police, who responded with tear gas, live ammunition, and water cannons.
Some polling centers were set ablaze in several areas, while at least one police vehicle was torched.
The unrest erupted amid accusations of electoral manipulation, suppression of opposition voices, and a lack of fair competition.
The Tanzanian police on Wednesday afternoon announced a nationwide curfew starting at 6 PM following the demonstrations.
Tanzanian authorities also shut down the internet as widespread protests unfolded across the country.
“Live network data show a nationwide disruption to internet connectivity in Tanzania on election day, corroborating reports of a digital blackout; the incident comes as Tanzanians vote for a new president and parliament, with both main opposition parties barred,” NetBlocks said in a report.
