Tanzanian Opposition Leader Urges Fair Verdict in Trial

Tanzania’s opposition leader Tundu Lissu has urged judges to deliver an impartial and courageous verdict as his treason trial enters its final stage. Prosecutors accuse Lissu, leader of the Chadema party, of inciting rebellion to obstruct the 2025 general election, an offense that can carry the death penalty. His defense says prosecutors have not proved the case and argues that the charges are politically motivated. The state, however, argues that the evidence meets the legal threshold. Lissu, who has been detained since April 2025, was barred from contesting in the presidential election after Chadema refused to sign an electoral code of conduct. That cleared the way for President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s near-unanimous re-election. The development drew criticism for shrinking civic space, which further intensified after a harsh post-election crackdown. The court’s verdict will therefore be a test of judicial independence and could shape Tanzania’s democratic landscape ahead of future elections.