Tanzania is entering a tense election season as political controversy deepens over a viral social media video criticizing the government and the ongoing treason trial of opposition leader Tundu Lissu, both of which have intensified scrutiny on the country’s democratic credentials.
The developments come just weeks before the nation heads to the polls in late October, in an atmosphere marked by censorship concerns, arrests of opposition figures, and growing unease among civil society groups.
Police Warn Over ‘Captain Tesha’ Viral Video
Authorities have issued a stern warning against the spread of a video featuring a man identifying himself as “Captain Tesha,” who harshly criticizes Tanzania’s government and military.
In the 80-minute clip, the unidentified man—whose military background remains unverified—claims to be a former officer of the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) and accuses the state of corruption, political interference in the army, and human rights violations.
He directly appeals to General Jacob Mkunda, head of the TPDF, to “take charge and defend the nation’s dignity.”
The Tanzania Police Force described the video as “false and inflammatory,” warning that spreading such material violates national security laws. “The public must reject and report behaviors that endanger peace and the moral fabric of Tanzania,” police said in a Sunday statement.
Military officials also cautioned against attempts to drag the army into political debates, with Colonel Bernard Masala Mlunga, the acting military spokesperson, reaffirming that “the TPDF remains professional, loyal, and apolitical.”
Tundu Lissu Faces Treason Trial Weeks Before Election
Adding to the political tension, opposition leader Tundu Lissu, head of the CHADEMA party, went on trial Monday on treason charges, accused of urging citizens to “rebel and disrupt” the upcoming elections.
Lissu, who came second in the 2020 presidential race, was arrested in April after publicly criticizing the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party and calling for electoral reforms. His party has since been barred from participating in the October 28 polls after refusing to sign an electoral code of conduct.
Lissu pleaded not guilty, claiming the charges are politically motivated. His lawyer said the prosecution seeks to silence the opposition ahead of voting day. The court has banned live media coverage at the state’s request, citing witness protection concerns.
The 57-year-old politician survived a 2017 assassination attempt in which he was shot 16 times. No one has been charged over the attack.
Mounting Pressure on President Hassan
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who succeeded John Magufuli in 2021, initially won praise for reopening political space and restoring media freedoms. However, critics now accuse her government of returning to repressive tactics.
Human rights groups say opposition arrests and reports of abductions of government critics point to shrinking democratic freedoms. Hassan has denied the allegations, saying her administration remains committed to human rights and the rule of law.
Analysts warn that the timing of both the “Captain Tesha” controversy and Lissu’s trial could further polarize Tanzania’s political climate. “These two events highlight the fragile balance between state authority and civic freedom in an election year,” said one Dar es Salaam-based political observer.
Uncertainty Ahead
As the election nears, Tanzanians are grappling with two narratives: one of stability and order emphasized by the government, and another of suppression voiced by opposition groups and activists.
With CHADEMA and other key opposition figures sidelined, and a mysterious figure calling for reform from the shadows of social media, the coming weeks could prove pivotal in defining Tanzania’s democratic future.