The police force has intervened in what seems to be narrowing down to a political showdown between the ruling CCM and the opposition, CHADEMA, banning all rallies until further notice.
CHADEMA were planning to commence a nationwide tour to tell Tanzanians the reasons behind their opposition to President Magufuli's leadership style, which they claim "is suppressing democracy much as contains some elements of dictatorship".
At the rallies, which were to be launched in Kahama District, Shinyanga Region, before moving to other regions, the opposition party also wanted to sue the government before "the public court for raping democracy and banning live coverage of parliament sessions".
Four days after the opposition's statement, CCM also announced on Monday that it would go over the country to counter the nationwide public rallies by the opposition party to criticise President Magufuli leadership style.
A media statement signed by the Commissioner of Police for Training and Operations, Mr Nsato Mssanzya, showed that all political rallies have been banned for security reasons effective yesterday.
The police force warned that stern measures will be taken against any defiant person as it struggles to ensure the country remains peaceful and stable. "The Police Force calls upon politicians to immediately stop putting pressure on citizens to disobey the laws of the country.
We will take to task any political party that will disobey this order immediately," read the statement in part. They have also called on the people to be careful with politicians who have plans to destabilise peace and tranquility - and instead "continue to cooperate in safeguarding the unity that the country has maintained all along".
According to the police force, the rallies have been banned as they were aimed at motivating community members to go against civil order.
It further read that other political parties have shown determination to attack their opponents, which might have led to violence between the two political groups.
CCM Spokesperson Christopher Ole-Sendeka told reporters on Monday that the party's members will not tolerate any false propaganda and criticism intended to tarnish the good image of President Magufuli and his government, which is taking the country in the right direction.
Mr Ole-Sendeka warned Chadema leaders not to use their platform to preach violence and instead should focus on spreading their ideology. He went further saying they will follow opposition's footprints in all areas they cross to clear the air by telling the people the truth.
The CCM spokesperson said the opposition party's criticisms on measures taken by Dr Magufuli to hold public servants accountable were misplaced as his actions were in accordance with the law.
