Joseph Isangura
Prominent opposition figure Tundu Lissu, known for his relentless stance on democratic governance and human rights, has urged Tanzanian authorities to either proceed to trial or admit they are not yet ready in the treason case brought against him.
Speaking before the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, Lissu questioned the state prosecutors’ delay in declaring whether the evidence they hold is sufficient to forward the matter to the High Court.
“Your Honour, I respectfully ask this court to require the state attorneys to tell us whether, after all these weeks, they believe the evidence is enough,” said Lissu. “If yes, then let us meet before a judge. If not, they are within their rights to seek more time to complete investigations.”
Lissu is currently facing two serious charges, including one of treason, which in Tanzania can carry a maximum sentence of death under the Penal Code. Although executions have not been carried out in recent years, the law remains on the books and the charge itself holds significant political and legal gravity.
A lawyer, seasoned politician, and former Member of Parliament for Singida East, Tundu Lissu has become one of the most recognized faces in Tanzania’s struggle for multi-party democracy.
After surviving an assassination attempt in 2017 in broad daylight outside Parliament, Lissu went into exile in Belgium, returning home in 2023 with renewed determination to challenge what he has often described as authoritarian drift.
His supporters, mostly from CHADEMA, the main opposition party, have remained vocal in demanding transparency and judicial fairness. The party itself has faced growing pressure over the years through legal hurdles, restricted assembly rights, and police surveillance.
The courtroom on Tuesday was filled with tension as supporters packed the public gallery, while armed police monitored the court premises. Observers say the state’s delay in advancing the case could indicate either insufficient evidence or political maneuvering.
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Legal experts have also expressed concern about the lengthy pre-trial process, saying it contradicts constitutional provisions of due process and the right to a fair and timely hearing under the Constitution of Tanzania.
“These delays risk turning the justice system into a political weapon,” said a legal rights advocate based in Dar es Salaam. “If the state has a case, let it be heard. If not, the charges should be dropped.”
The case’s slow progress has prompted critics to question the independence of the judiciary amid speculation that the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party may be using the courts to weaken the opposition ahead of the highly anticipated 2025 General Election.
Lissu is widely regarded as a potential presidential contender in the upcoming elections. His legal woes, supporters argue, are an attempt to disqualify him or weaken his public standing before campaign season intensifies.
Despite the charges, Lissu continues to mobilize politically and legally. “I have faced bullets before. A court of law doesn’t scare me — only injustice does,” he said defiantly outside the courthouse, where dozens of CHADEMA youth leaders waited in solidarity.
The magistrate adjourned the hearing to a later date, granting the prosecution time to decide their next steps — either moving to trial or seeking further investigation time.
