Particle.news
Download on the App Store
6 ARTICLES
·
2mo ago

Tanzania Opposition Leader Tundu Lissu Charged with Treason Ahead of Elections

The arrest and charges against Lissu intensify concerns over political repression as the government faces criticism for silencing dissent before the October 2025 elections.

Tanzanian opposition leader and former presidential candidate of CHADEMA party Tundu Lissu talks to his lawyer Jebra Kambole at the Kisutu Resident Magistrate's Court in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania April 10, 2025. REUTERS/Emmanuel Herman
Tanzania's main opposition leader Tundu Lissu was arrested on Wednesday
Image
Image

Overview

  • Tundu Lissu, leader of Tanzania's main opposition party CHADEMA, has been charged with treason for alleged incitement to rebellion and disrupting upcoming elections.
  • The charges stem from remarks made during an April 3 rally and social media posts calling for an election boycott due to concerns over electoral rigging.
  • Amnesty International and other rights groups have condemned Lissu's arrest, citing it as part of a wider campaign to suppress opposition voices.
  • President Samia Suluhu Hassan, initially praised for easing political restrictions, is now facing criticism for renewed crackdowns, including arrests, abductions, and alleged killings of government critics.
  • Lissu remains in custody, with his next court appearance scheduled for April 24, as CHADEMA threatens to boycott the October elections without significant electoral reforms.