Security has been tightened throughout the country with police and military seen patrolling major cities in anticipation of expected demonstrations against the government called to coincide with the nation's independence anniversary.
By midday, however, no demonstrations had begun.
People living in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya, Mwanza reported an unusually slow start to the day, with a large number opting to stay home amid uncertainty over whether protests would happen.
The protests were organized to demand changes to the political system in the wake of the unrest that followed last October's elections which resulted in an unconfirmed death toll.
The authorities have admitted using force against protesters, asserting that certain elements aimed to topple the government.
Correspondents noted on Tuesday nearly empty streets in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam. This was a stark contrast to the city's usual weekday bustle.
The quiet was undercut by a persistent sense of tension.
Security vehicles were seen driving along primary thoroughfares and junctions, while officers took up positions at strategic locations, particularly near important public buildings and facilities.
On social media, activists and campaigners urged supporters to stay alert, suggesting any demonstrations were unlikely to begin until the afternoon. The messaging echoed past mobilization efforts in the country, when participation grew as the day progressed.
Drivers who went out experienced regular stops at security checkpoints, where officers questioned drivers about their destinations.
The government has not issued detailed comments on the increased security or on the planned protests.
Tanzanian authorities have banned the intended demonstrations and called off independence anniversary events, advising the public to remain at home.
"With many staying at home the atmosphere is quiet but tense."
The day's events depicted a nation on edge, where the threat of protest resulted in a security clampdown in advance that effectively emptied typically busy cities.
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