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Tanzania Faces Backlash Over Opposition Crackdown and Activist Deportations

Tundu Lissu's treason trial continues as foreign observers are detained or expelled, fueling regional and international criticism of Tanzania's democratic practices.

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Tanzania's main opposition leader Tundu Lissuat, centre, gestures as he arrive at Kisutu magistrate's court in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Monday, May 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Derick Katunzi)
Tanzania's main opposition leader Tundu Lissuat, appears at Kisutu magistrate's court in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Monday, May 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Derick Katunzi)
Tanzania's main opposition leader Tundu Lissuat, centre, appears at Kisutu magistrate's court in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Monday, May 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Derick Katunzi)

Overview

  • Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu appeared in court on May 19 for his treason trial, where he faces a potential death penalty for allegedly inciting rebellion ahead of the October elections.
  • Several Kenyan and Ugandan activists, including prominent figures like Martha Karua and Boniface Mwangi, were detained or deported after attempting to observe Lissu's trial in Dar es Salaam.
  • Lissu's party, Chadema, remains barred from the upcoming elections after refusing to sign a government-mandated electoral code of conduct, citing bias in favor of the ruling party.
  • Tanzania's actions have drawn criticism from rights groups and neighboring countries, with Kenya's Foreign Affairs Ministry seeking explanations for the treatment of its citizens.
  • President Samia Suluhu Hassan, initially praised for political openness, now faces mounting accusations of democratic backsliding and suppressing opposition voices.