Tanzania cancels Independence Day celebrations

By The Inspirer.

Tanzania has announced the cancellation of the celebrations planned for December 9, 2025, to mark the country’s Independence Day, when it gained freedom from British colonial rule.

The decision was announced by Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba, who said it was made by President Samia Suluh Hassan to redirect the funds originally allocated for the celebrations toward repairing infrastructure damaged during protests following last month’s presidential elections.

The elections, in which President Samia Suluh reportedly won with 98% of the vote, were marred by unrest, with opposition groups claiming widespread irregularities.

Prime Minister Nchemba stated: “The President has ordered that no Independence Day celebrations will be held on December 9.”

He added, “Responsible authorities have been instructed to ensure that the funds are properly used to repair infrastructure damaged during the protests.”

Tanzania, formerly known as Tanganyika, gained independence from British rule on December 9, 1961.

Opposition groups had said that the planned December 9, 2025 celebrations would have been an opportunity to protest and call for democratic reforms, including the release of detained activists.