NAIROBI, Kenya — In a courtroom charged with political tension and symbolism, Tanzania’s main opposition figure Tundu Lissu made his first in-person appearance Monday after weeks of legal drama.
Former Kenyan Chief Justice David Maraga, in a show of regional solidarity, was present at the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court, where Lissu faces grave charges — treason and publication of false information — that could put him behind bars for life, or worse.
Despite the looming legal peril, Lissu arrived in court with a smile and a resolve that resonated far beyond the courtroom’s walls.
It was a moment watched not just by Tanzanians but by observers across East Africa, many of whom are closely monitoring what this high-profile case means for the future of democracy in Tanzania.
A Symbolic Courtroom Appearance Amid Heavy Charges
Tundu Lissu’s charges stem from an April 9 rally in Mbinga, where he demanded electoral reforms ahead of Tanzania’s October elections.
Authorities claim his remarks incited revolt and threatened national stability, sparking a legal battle that has quickly become one of the most politically sensitive in recent years.
But Lissu, ever the fighter, refused to attend court virtually. Instead, he launched a hunger strike — a risky gamble — that ultimately led the court to agree to a physical appearance. Monday’s proceeding marked his first in-person hearing since his arrest, and though heavily guarded, his energy was unshaken.
Outside the courthouse, chants of “No Reforms, No Election” filled the air as Chadema supporters rallied behind their leader.
Lissu’s party continues to demand the establishment of an independent electoral commission and legal reforms that would allow presidential election outcomes to be challenged in a constitutional court — a right currently nonexistent under Tanzanian law.
Regional Leaders Barred, But Still Watching
Lissu’s appearance wasn’t just a domestic affair — it drew high-profile observers from neighboring Kenya. Former Chief Justice David Maraga arrived early Monday and briefly spoke with Lissu before taking his seat in court. Later, Maraga tweeted:
“It was truly inspiring to see my brother Tundu Lissu in high spirits today in court. I hold firm in the hope that the legal process will reflect the highest standards of integrity and respect for human dignity.”
But not everyone was granted access.
Kenyan politician and People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua was detained and deported upon landing at Julius Nyerere Airport on Sunday. Alongside her were Law Society of Kenya’s Gloria Kimani and Lynn Ngugi of the Pan-African Progressive Leaders Solidarity Network, who were also denied entry.
Former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga faced a similar fate. Detained later the same day, Mutunga had travelled with civil society activists Hanifa Adan and Hussein Khalid, all hoping to observe the proceedings and show solidarity.
Tanzania’s Democratic Test Ahead of the Polls
President Samia Suluhu Hassan initially drew praise for easing political tensions after succeeding John Magufuli in 2021. But Lissu’s arrest, along with rising crackdowns on the opposition, have stirred concern that democratic space is narrowing once again.
Lissu’s trial is now viewed as a litmus test for the country’s democratic trajectory. If the charges — particularly treason — are pursued to the maximum extent, Tanzania risks undoing the political goodwill built in recent years.
As the October general elections approach, the eyes of the region remain fixed on Dodoma. Whether this moment becomes a catalyst for reform or a flashpoint for repression may well be decided in the courtroom where Lissu now stands.
