Tundu Lissu's Treason Trial Begins Amid Political Tensions in Tanzania

Tundu Lissu, leader of Tanzania's main opposition party, CHADEMA, appeared in court on October 6, 2025, as his treason trial commenced in Dar es Salaam. The charges stem from an April 3 speech in which Lissu allegedly incited public rebellion and called for disrupting the upcoming general elections scheduled for October 29. He was arrested on April 9 and has since denied the charges, asserting they are politically motivated.

The trial has drawn significant attention both domestically and internationally, with concerns raised over political repression and human rights in Tanzania. Notably, the court has banned live broadcasts of the proceedings to protect the identities of prosecution witnesses.

Lissu's legal team has expressed frustration over delays in the trial. On May 6, the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court urged the prosecution to expedite the investigation and provide an update by May 19. Defense lawyer Mpale Mpoki questioned the necessity of prolonged investigations, stating, "When I read the particulars of the offense in the charge sheet, I fail to see what else you are going to investigate."

The political climate in Tanzania has been tense, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan's administration facing criticism for alleged abductions and crackdowns on opposition figures. In April, two senior CHADEMA officials, Deputy Chairperson John Heche and Secretary General John Mnyika, were arrested en route to court to attend Lissu's trial. Their whereabouts remain unknown, and authorities have not confirmed their detention.

International human rights organizations have condemned the Tanzanian government's actions. Amnesty International criticized a "campaign of repression" and "heavy-handed tactics to silence critics." Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International's Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, stated, "The Tanzanian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release Tundu Lissu whose arbitrary arrest and detention comes amid a growing crackdown on opposition leaders ahead of the October 2025 general elections."

The trial's outcome is poised to have significant implications for Tanzania's political landscape, especially with the general elections approaching. Observers are closely monitoring the proceedings, viewing them as a litmus test for the nation's commitment to democratic principles and human rights.