Tanzania Limits Fuel Sale To Boda Boda Ahead of Dec 9 Protests

The Tanzanian government has directed petrol stations across the country not to sell more than two litres of fuel to tuk-tuk and boda boda operators.

Officials said the measure is intended to limit movement ahead of planned demonstrations in December.

Youth groups have called for protests on December 9 over the re-election of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

The directive was issued on Wednesday by the Officer Commanding District (OCD) in Chunya, N. M. John, who said the move aims to prevent mobility that could facilitate unrest.

“Sell them only a small amount of fuel, not more than two litres, because when you sell them a lot of fuel, you are enabling them to move from point A to point B and continue causing destruction,” he said.

Tanzania has been on edge since October 28, when voters went to the polls to elect the president and Members of the National Assembly.

Opposition leaders have raised concerns about irregularities and intimidation during the process, with some candidates reportedly blocked from contesting or detained.

President Suluhu was declared the winner with 98 per cent of the vote.

Opposition parties rejected the results, calling the exercise a mockery of democracy.

There have been claims by opposition groups that protesters were killed during demonstrations, though the government has denied these reports.

International observers also criticised the electoral process, citing transparency and fairness concerns.

In her victory speech on November 1, President Suluhu defended the election as “free and democratic” and thanked security forces for maintaining order during voting, adding that some protesters were “unpatriotic.”

Further controversy arose after a CNN report alleged police involvement in shootings during protests.

The government dismissed the claims but promised a comprehensive response.

OCD John said police were engaging fuel traders to ensure they do not inadvertently facilitate criminal activity during the protests.

“We are also telling fuel transporters not to sell fuel randomly along the road. We have strengthened our patrols in those areas, at fuel stations, and we are monitoring vehicles that transport fuel,” he said.

He added that those found selling fuel illegally along the roadside could face legal action.

“Anyone found parked by the roadside selling fuel illegally — one litre, two litres — we will not hesitate to take action in accordance with the law,” he said.