Tanzania Opposition Leader Tundu Lissu Faces Treason Trial, Rejects Charges as Political

A Tanzanian court has ruled that opposition leader Tundu Lissu has a case to answer in his treason trial, clearing the way for the proceedings to continue.

The decision was delivered on Friday by a three-judge panel at the High Court, following the prosecution’s presentation of evidence and testimony from 17 witnesses.

“The court rules that the prosecution established a case which the accused needs to answer,” Judge Dunstan Ndunguru said.

Lissu Faces Potential Death Penalty

Lissu, the leader of the opposition Chadema party, was arrested in April 2025 and charged with treason over allegations that he incited the public to boycott elections.

Treason carries a potential death sentence in Tanzania, making the case one of the country’s most closely watched political trials.

Lissu, who returned from exile in 2023, has been arrested several times during his political career. He also survived an assassination attempt in 2017.

Opposition Leader Calls for Defence Witnesses

Representing himself in court, Lissu said he planned to call several senior government officials as defence witnesses, including President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

He asked the court to summon the officials and also complained that he had been unable to meet his lawyers and witnesses while in prison.

“I need to meet my lawyers and witnesses but they are not allowed to visit me in the prison,” Lissu told the court.

Tight Security as Supporters Attend Hearing

Security was increased around the High Court as Lissu’s supporters gathered for the ruling. Foreign diplomats were also present.

The ruling disappointed supporters of the opposition leader.

“I did not expect such a ruling which will continue keeping our leader in jail… but we are moving forward to the next stage,” Chadema youth leader Benitho Mwapinga said.

Political Tensions Remain High

Lissu’s arrest followed his party’s campaign for electoral reforms under the slogan “No Reforms, No Elections.”

Chadema has accused the government of returning to the repressive tactics associated with former President John Magufuli, while authorities have rejected such allegations.

Tanzania has faced international criticism over violence surrounding the November elections. The government says more than 500 people were killed during the unrest but has not attributed responsibility for the deaths.

The treason case is expected to remain a major test for Tanzania’s political climate and its handling of opposition activity.