Heavy police and military deployments prevented planned demonstrations in Kenya and Tanzania as both countries marked politically significant anniversaries. In Kenya, authorities sealed off parts of Nairobi, including parliament, to deter protests commemorating the country’s pro-democracy movement of the 1990s. Several people were arrested, while opposition figures accused the government of intimidating citizens and restricting civil liberties. In Tanzania, security forces maintained a strong presence in Dar es Salaam ahead of planned protests demanding democratic reforms and the release of jailed opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who faces treason charges. The heightened security reflects ongoing political tensions in both countries, with analysts noting Tanzania’s government remains especially vigilant following last year’s disputed election and subsequent crackdown on opposition supporters.
AP