Tanzania’s leading opposition party, CHADEMA, has raised alarm over the mysterious whereabouts of its leader Tundu Lissu, who was arrested last week on treason charges. According to party officials, lawyers, and family members, repeated attempts to locate Lissu at Keko Prison in Dar es Salaam on Friday were unsuccessful, prompting concerns over his safety and detention conditions.
Lissu, a former presidential candidate and vocal critic of the government, has been in custody since April 9 following allegations that he incited rebellion during a recent speech. Authorities have yet to allow him to enter a plea, and the charges have sparked widespread concern over the state of political freedoms in Tanzania ahead of elections later this year.
In a statement, CHADEMA called on the Tanzania Prisons Service and other relevant authorities to disclose Lissu’s current location and ensure transparency. “The government must account for his whereabouts,” the party said, warning that the lack of information fuels public distrust.
The Prisons Service, however, denied any transfer of the opposition leader, stating that he remains in lawful custody at Keko Prison and that reports of his disappearance are “false and misleading.” Spokesperson Elizabeth Mbezi reassured the public that Lissu is safe and that all procedures are being followed in accordance with the law.
Lissu’s arrest and the charges against him have reignited concerns over Tanzania’s political climate under President Samia Suluhu Hassan. While initially commended for restoring some political freedoms following the death of former President John Magufuli, her administration is now facing renewed criticism over a perceived crackdown on opposition figures and civil liberties.
In a further escalation, the electoral commission announced CHADEMA’s disqualification from the upcoming October elections, citing the party’s refusal to sign a code of conduct in protest of what it calls flawed electoral laws.
Human rights advocates warn that the developments may mark a setback for political openness in the country, as reports of harassment, arbitrary arrests, and enforced disappearances of government critics continue to surface. President Hassan has previously pledged to uphold human rights and launched an inquiry into alleged abductions, but opposition leaders and activists argue that tangible reforms remain elusive.
As questions continue to mount over Lissu’s detention, CHADEMA and its supporters are calling for immediate access to their leader and for the international community to keep a close watch on the unfolding political landscape in Tanzania.