Detailed Report: How Tundu Lissu’s Treason Case Continues to Spark Debate on Political Rights and the Law in Tanzania

 

On May 6, 2025, the treason case against the National Chairman of the Party for Democracy and Progress (CHADEMA), Tundu Lissu, continued to dominate national news in Tanzania. The case, which charges Lissu with treason following his speech urging electoral reforms ahead of the general elections scheduled for October 2025, has sparked significant debate on political rights, freedom of expression, and the use of the law against opposition politicians. This report analyzes recent developments in the case, the surrounding political climate, and its implications for democracy in Tanzania.

Case Developments: May 6, 2025

According to a report by Jambo TV published on the social media platform X, the hearing for Tundu Lissu’s case proceeded on May 6, 2025, via a virtual hearing for a mention (pre-trial procedural hearing). However, Lissu himself refused to participate, objecting to the virtual hearing format. The Ukonga Prison Director, Assistant Commissioner of Prisons Juma Mwaibako, stated that Lissu completely declined to join, claiming that the virtual process violated his legal rights.

Meanwhile, the defense team, led by Lawyer Mpale Mpoki and 18 other lawyers, expressed dissatisfaction with how the prosecution has delayed investigations. Lawyer Mpoki questioned why the investigations remain incomplete despite earlier claims that evidence was available on YouTube. He requested the court to order the prosecution to provide detailed updates on the investigation’s progress, arguing that the delay amounted to unjust detention of Lissu without valid cause.

The prosecution team, led by Senior Government Lawyer Tawabu Yahya and three other lawyers, argued there is no law requiring them to give detailed investigation updates. Yahya said that once the investigations are complete, they would upload the evidence online and provide copies to the defense lawyers. However, the defense rejected this, asserting that the delay is a deliberate tactic to keep Lissu in custody without valid reasons, violating his rights as an accused.

After hearing both sides, Resident Magistrate Godfrey Mhini urged the prosecution to expedite investigations and present a progress report at the next hearing. The case was adjourned to May 19, 2025, for the next mention.

The Political Context Surrounding the Case

The case against Tundu Lissu did not arise in isolation; it occurs amid a tense political environment in Tanzania. Lissu, a prominent opposition figure against the ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), was arrested on April 9, 2025, after delivering a speech in Mbinga calling for electoral reforms. He was charged with treason and inciting hostility, allegations strongly contested by CHADEMA and its supporters, who argue the government is using the case to silence Lissu ahead of the election.

Since returning to Tanzania in January 2023 after five years of exile in Belgium, Lissu has led campaigns demanding electoral reforms, including calls for an independent electoral commission and laws protecting opposition parties. However, he has faced numerous challenges, including repeated arrests. On April 12, 2025, Lissu was disqualified from contesting the 2025 general election, fueling concerns over the state of democracy.

Meanwhile, CHADEMA accuses President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government of reverting to the repressive tactics used by her predecessor, John Magufuli. Lissu survived an assassination attempt in 2017 where he was shot 16 times—an attack he alleges was orchestrated by political opponents. No one has been convicted for that attack, increasing public distrust of the justice system.

Implications for Democracy and the 2025 Elections

The Lissu case has significant implications for Tanzania’s democratic future. First, it raises concerns about freedom of expression and political rights for opposition leaders. If the government can use treason laws to prosecute opposition for political speech, it risks intimidating others from speaking out.

Second, the case may impact the credibility of the upcoming October 2025 elections. Lissu and CHADEMA have called for an independent electoral commission—a demand the government has resisted. His disqualification has fueled perceptions that CCM is manipulating the political landscape to control election outcomes.

Third, the use of virtual hearings highlights strategic legal challenges for the accused. Lissu has rejected this format, arguing it is inappropriate for a serious case like his. This raises questions about the right to a fair trial, especially in cases involving severe charges like treason.

The International Perspective

Internationally, concerns about human rights in Tanzania are growing. According to a report by The Guardian dated April 24, 2025, human rights organizations and Western governments have increasingly criticized Tanzania’s government for repression, including targeting CHADEMA politicians and incidents of abduction and killings of opposition members. This could affect Tanzania’s relations with international partners, especially if conditions worsen ahead of the elections.

Conclusion

The Tundu Lissu case is more than a legal matter; it is a manifestation of ongoing political struggles in Tanzania. It tests the resilience of democracy, freedom of expression, and fundamental human rights. With the October 2025 elections approaching, it is crucial for the government, judiciary, and other stakeholders to protect opposition rights and ensure laws are not weaponized to suppress dissent.

As the case continues, many eyes will be on the May 19, 2025 hearing to see if the prosecution completes its investigations and if Lissu is granted his right to a fair hearing. Until then, debates on political rights and democracy in Tanzania will remain intense, with hopes for meaningful reforms that bring lasting change