The Tanzanian opposition has said its leader, Tundu Lissu, was secretly moved to a different prison. Lissu, a top CHADEMA figure and former presidential candidate, was charged with treason last week. His party claimed on Friday that no one knew his location.
On Saturday, a CHADEMA spokesperson, Brenda Rupia, announced: “CHADEMA would like to inform the public … Lissu has been transferred to Ukonga Prison.”
This transfer has sparked public concern, especially after the party said Lissu’s lawyers and family were denied access. The Tanzanian opposition is calling for answers from the government.
Tanzanian Opposition Questions President Hassan’s Human Rights Record
The Tanzanian opposition says the way Lissu has been treated shows a growing abuse of power under President Samia Suluhu Hassan. She once gained praise for easing restrictions, but the situation has changed.
Recently, human rights activists have accused her government of arresting, harassing, and silencing political opponents. They say Lissu’s arrest is just one of many troubling signs ahead of the general election scheduled for October.
Lissu, who finished second in the 2020 elections, was charged for allegedly urging the public to rebel. But he was not allowed to enter a plea.
Tanzanian Opposition Party CHADEMA Faces Election Disqualification
The Tanzanian opposition now faces more pressure. The national electoral commission recently threatened to disqualify CHADEMA. This came after the party refused to sign a controversial code of conduct, demanding electoral reforms instead.
Gerson Msigwa, the government’s spokesperson, told reporters that any comment about the case would come from relevant authorities. But many see that as avoiding accountability.
Elizabeth Mbezi of the Tanzania Prisons Service also refused to respond to calls or messages from the press.
Tanzanian Opposition Demands Justice and Transparency
The Tanzanian opposition says Lissu’s transfer was done in secrecy. His party and supporters are demanding transparency. As the country moves toward elections, many citizens fear a return to political repression.
The Tanzanian opposition has now become a symbol of resistance, with activists and global observers closely watching the government’s next move.
