Tanzanian High Court Dismisses Treason Case Objections Against Opposition Leader Tundu Lissu
In a significant legal development, the High Court of Tanzania has rejected all objections raised by opposition leader Tundu Lissu regarding the validity of the treason charge sheet against him.
Lissu is facing a single treason charge related to alleged remarks made on April 3, 2025, in Dar es Salaam, where he reportedly called on Tanzanians to prevent the upcoming 2025 General Election.
During last week’s hearing, Lissu argued that the charge sheet was defective, claiming it failed to specify the precise details and intent of the alleged treason. However, presiding judge Dunstan Ndunguru, speaking on behalf of the judicial panel, stated that the document met all legal requirements and outlined the offense as prescribed by law.
The court emphasized that the matter of intent would be addressed during the trial proceedings. Additionally, the judges dismissed Lissu’s claims about witness statements and police testimony, ruling that these issues had already been addressed in previous committal proceedings.
Upon the formal reading of the charge, Lissu acknowledged the quoted statements as his own but categorically denied committing treason. He maintained that his statements were purely political in nature, asserting his role as a government critic and emphasizing his intention to challenge the electoral process.
The case will proceed with Lissu expected to review the case summary and indicate which facts he agrees with or disputes. This development marks a critical moment in Tanzania’s political and legal landscape.
