Tanzania’s Government Ministries and Agencies Shut Down Amid Election Unrest
DAR ES SALAAM / DODOMA – In a sweeping move following violent protests during the general election, President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration has on Thursday 30.October 2025 ordered the closure of all government ministries, agencies and regional offices. Only staff engaged in essential and emergency services — such as health, security, power and water — are permitted to report to work.
The directive comes after a nationwide night‑curfew (initially set from 7:00 pm to 6:00 am) was imposed in major cities including Dar es Salaam, Dodoma and Arusha, where police and military forces confronted demonstrators protesting alleged election irregularities. Tear gas and, in some instances, live ammunition were used to disperse crowds. Roadblocks and heavy patrols were instituted around key infrastructure and commuter routes.
Under the shutdown order, the private sector has also been instructed to stay home or suspend operations pending further notice. The goal, officials say, is to stabilise the situation while the government assesses the nationwide unrest. Connectivity disruptions have been reported, with major social‑media services and messaging platforms heavily affected. Civic groups and election‑observers warn the crisis may have deeper implications for civil liberties and institutional governance.
What’s Happening
A blanket closure of central ministries, agencies and regional offices has been enacted, effective immediately.
Essential services are exempt, but many administrative functions have come to a halt.
The government attributes the decision to maintaining public order in the face of mass protests.
Observers warn the move raises serious questions about governance, accountability and democratic process.
Impact & Implications
Public‑service disruption – With ministries shut and agencies at minimal operational capacity, citizen access to routine services like permits, licensing, regulatory approvals, and regional coordination is likely to be severely affected.
Economic fallout – Private‑sector firms relying on government approvals may face delays. The directive also affects normal working operations for many firms, introducing uncertainty into the business environment.
Political signal – The shutdown signals a consolidation of executive authority in a moment of national crisis. It raises concerns among human‑rights groups, opposition parties and international donors about the future of democratic institutions in Tanzania.
Regional consequences – As a key member of the East African Community (EAC), disruptions in Tanzania risk spill‑over into cross‑border trade, infrastructure coordination and regional governance functions.
What Still Remains Unclear
The duration of the shutdown: It remains uncertain how long ministries will stay closed or at minimal operation.
The specific list of affected ministries: While the order covers “all,” details of which offices remain open or partially functioning are scant.
The post‑shutdown trajectory: Whether the shutdown is purely temporary or a precursor to more structural changes in Tanzania’s governance remains to be seen.
Historical Perspective
While the Tanzanian government has previously merged or reorganised ministries under earlier administrations — for example under President John Magufuli, who consolidated several agencies for efficiency — a full operational shutdown of this magnitude is unprecedented.
Looking Ahead
If the shutdown lasts only a short period (one to two weeks) it may serve as a tactical stabilization measure. But if it extends into the medium term (one month or more) it could mark a turning point toward greater centralisation of power and eroded institutional autonomy in Tanzania. The world will be watching: the decisions made now may shape Tanzania’s governance model for years to come.
