Joseph Isangura
Tanzania’s opposition chairman, Tundu Lissu, has formally written to the High Court seeking clarity on when his long-pending treason case will resume.
Lissu addressed the letter to the Dar es Salaam division, expressing concern over what he described as an extended period of silence since the last court appearance — despite earlier assurances that the matter would proceed without delay.
According to his legal team, the opposition figure expected the Court to release a continuation schedule soon after the previous hearing concluded. During that session, state prosecutors informed the Court that they were prepared with witnesses and evidence, raising expectations that the trial would pick up swiftly.
Gaston Garubindi, the party’s Director of Legal and Human Rights Affairs, told reporters that Lissu, who has chosen to represent himself, has been waiting for the Court to issue a clear timetable. Garubindi noted that because the charges he faces fall under treason — a serious and non-bailable offence — both the defence and the public expected a level of urgency in the case’s management.
Lissu remains in remand custody as he awaits the continuation of the proceedings. His legal team says they are aware that the judiciary is approaching its annual recess, but stresses that the holiday period should not halt active matters before the Court. Garubindi emphasised that justice must not be delayed, particularly in cases that carry major legal and political implications.
Also Read; UN Rights Chief Stresses Everyday Importance of Human Rights
The delay has drawn wider public interest, especially considering Lissu’s prominence in national politics and his history of high-profile confrontations with the state. His supporters argue that extended postponements risk undermining the principle of timely justice, which is a key safeguard under human rights law.
Legal observers say the situation highlights broader concerns about the efficiency and transparency of court processes in sensitive political cases. Some activists have pointed to previous instances where hearings were deferred due to logistical or security issues, raising questions about consistency in judicial administration.
Lissu’s case unfolds against the backdrop of heightened political debate following Tanzania’s 2025 General Election, an event that intensified scrutiny on democratic practices and the rule of law. Analysts note that how the judiciary handles his case may influence public confidence in legal institutions at a time when political tensions remain visible.
