Mkamburi Chigogo shocked as Tanzanians demonstrate against Samia Suluhu’s govt
By Paulette Mboga, October 30, 2025Radio host Mkamburi Chigogo has expressed surprise at the ongoing demonstrations in Tanzania, saying she never thought Tanzanians would take to the streets in large numbers.
Her comments come as protests continue for the second day following the country’s presidential and parliamentary elections.
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In a video that has since drawn attention online on Thursday, October 30, 2025, Mkamburi said she was shocked to see Tanzanians defying government orders to express their anger over the election process.
“Mimi, I never thought in a million years kwamba Watanzania hata mmoja atatoka kuandamana. Ehh wapigie makofi. I could not believe my eyes,” she said.
Curfew, roadblocks as unrest spreads
Tanzania has been rocked by widespread demonstrations that have seen roads blocked and businesses shut down, especially in major cities like Dar es Salaam. According to an update released by the US embassy in Dar es Salaam, several main roads, including the one leading to Julius Nyerere International Airport, remain closed.
“Event: National presidential and parliamentary elections in Tanzania are ongoing. There are reports of countrywide demonstrations resulting in outbreaks of violence and roadblocks. Some major roads, including the main road to Julius Nyerere International Airport, are closed,” read part of the embassy’s advisory.
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On Wednesday night, the Tanzanian government imposed a curfew in Dar es Salaam after violent clashes between police and protesters. The unrest has disrupted communication across the country, with reports of an internet blackout making it difficult for residents to access information or contact relatives in affected areas.
Mkamburi praised the courage of Tanzanians who ignored curfew orders and continued protesting.
“Wakapewa curfew, watu bado wakasema curfew si curfew hatutambui, wakatoka. Wakasema sisi hatutaki kujua, kufa gari, kufa dereva, kufa makanga, ama walikomboa watu kutoka Kenya?” she added.
The protests, which began shortly after polls closed, have intensified amid claims of vote irregularities. Security forces have been deployed to restore order in several regions, but reports indicate that demonstrations are spreading to more towns as citizens demand transparency in the election results.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the growing unrest, while residents remain uncertain about how long the curfew and road closures will last.