Tanzania Opposition Leader Tundu Lissu Relocated Amid Treason Charges

The leader of Tanzania’s opposition, Tundu Lissu, has been moved to Ukonga Prison amidst treason charges. This news raises concerns about President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s human rights record as she campaigns for re-election. The opposition party, CHADEMA, expressed frustration over access to Lissu and the implications of disqualification from elections due to claimed refusal to sign a code of conduct.

Tanzania’s principal opposition party, CHADEMA, announced on Saturday that its leader, Tundu Lissu, has been relocated to a different prison following a period where his whereabouts were uncertain. Lissu is currently charged with treason, a situation that raises questions regarding President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s commitment to human rights as she seeks re-election later in October.

The CHADEMA party affirmed that its officials met with representatives from the Tanzania Prisons Service, who confirmed Lissu’s transfer to Ukonga Prison. Brenda Rupia, a spokesperson for the party, stated, “CHADEMA would like to inform the public … Lissu has been transferred to Ukonga Prison.”

The spokesperson for the Tanzania Prisons Service, Elizabeth Mbezi, did not provide comments to inquiries from the press. Government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa indicated that all inquiries about the case post-charge should be directed to the relevant authorities.

Previously, CHADEMA reported that attempts by party officials, Lissu’s lawyers, and family to visit him at his previous location had been unsuccessful since his detention began on April 10. It remains unclear why Lissu was moved to the new facility. Just last week, he faced treason charges related to remarks purportedly urging public rebellion against the upcoming election.

Moreover, the election commission’s recent decision to disqualify CHADEMA from the upcoming election highlights further tensions, attributed to the party’s refusal to comply with a code of conduct unless electoral reforms are enacted. While President Hassan received praise initially for easing restrictions on opposition and media freedom, she faces growing backlash from human rights groups due to a series of oppressive measures, including arrests and abductions of political rivals.

In summary, Tundu Lissu, the leader of Tanzania’s opposition party CHADEMA, has been transferred to Ukonga Prison under treason charges, igniting debate around human rights under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration. Despite earlier progress in political freedoms, recent actions against political opponents indicate a resurgence of governmental repression, highlighting an increasingly contentious political climate as Tanzania approaches its elections.

Original Source: theprint.in