Tanzanian opposition leader and former presidential candidate Tundu Lissu appeared in court on Monday to face treason charges, urging his supporters to remain courageous in the face of mounting political tensions.
Lissu, who represents the opposition Chadema party, raised his fist and flashed victory signs as he entered the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court in Dar es Salaam. Supporters gathered outside chanted slogans including “No Reforms, No Election,” in a show of defiance.
“We will be fine. You should not fear,” Lissu told his followers from the dock.
The court appearance marks Lissu’s first since his April 24 refusal to attend a virtual hearing from prison. Authorities accuse him of inciting rebellion in a public speech, an allegation that led to his arrest last month. Lissu, who survived an assassination attempt in 2017, was the runner-up in the 2020 presidential election.
The charges come amid growing criticism of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s human rights record, as she prepares to seek re-election. Her administration insists it remains committed to democratic principles.
Meanwhile, Kenyan human rights advocates, including prominent political figures, were blocked from entering Tanzania to attend the trial in solidarity with Lissu. Among them were former Kenyan Justice Minister Martha Karua and ex-Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, who were detained upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport before being deported.
“Today was going to be a big day and we went out there in solidarity,” Karua told Kenyan broadcaster NTV after her return to Nairobi. “The state cannot be used as a personal tool. You cannot deport people whom you don’t like.”
Human rights activist Hussein Khalid, who was also part of the group, confirmed via social media that he and Mutunga were held for questioning before being expelled.
Tanzanian authorities have not issued a formal explanation. Immigration spokesperson Paul Mselle has yet to respond to requests for comment.
Lissu’s Chadema party has continued to demand sweeping reforms to Tanzania’s electoral process, arguing that the current system unfairly benefits the ruling party and undermines the credibility of upcoming elections slated for October.