Tanzanian authorities have arrested dozens of people ahead of planned anti-government protests, part of a crackdown on calls demanding democratic reforms and the release of a key opposition figure.

The protests are set to take place on Tuesday, coinciding with the 72nd anniversary of the ruling party’s establishment. Young people have called for the demonstrations to demand democratic changes and the release of opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who was arrested on treason charges after calling for electoral reforms ahead of last year’s general election.

Government Crackdown on Opposition

The government has banned political rallies and warned against any demonstrations. Sylvester Mangure, the army spokesperson, accused