By Sharon Akose
Kenyans within western region are worried about what is happening in Tanzania, after voting was followed by chaos, internet shutdowns and protests in major towns.
Protests marred the election Wednesday election, even as the government imposed a curfew to prevent protesters from coming out on the streets.
Reports from Dar es Salaam and Arusha indicate that police blocked roads, arrested protesters and stopped journalists from covering the situation. The government also switched off some social media platforms and told people to stay indoors.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan who is seeking a second term, has been accused of curtailing the freedom of expression by clamping down on dissenting voices.
Tanzanians are protesting against what they call sham elections, after President Suluhu’s major opponents were either banned from contesting, arrested or abducted.
In Vihiga County, some Kenyans said Tanzania is no longer as democratic as it used to be.
“Tanzania used to be peaceful and fair, but now things are changing,” said Thomas Wanyonyi from Emuhaya. “When leaders stop people from using the media or the internet, it means they fear the truth.”
From Hamisi, Mercy Aluoch, a teacher, said the situation is worrying. “It’s sad to see our neighbours losing their freedom. In Kenya, at least we can complain and talk freely, but in Tanzania, people are scared,” she said.
Peter Omondi, a boda boda in Emuhaya, said Tanzanian leaders are making a big mistake. “They are hiding information from their people. That’s not democracy. That’s control,” he said.
The Tanzanian government on Thursday ordered all civil servants to work from home, following Wednesday's elections that were marked by violence and internet disruption.
Rights groups on the other hand have urged restraint following reports of deaths and injuries on voting day, when protesters set fire to vehicles and damaged infrastructure.
Tanzania, once known as one of Africa’s most peaceful and stable nations, now finds itself on edge.