Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu faces treason charges, carrying the death penalty, following his arrest after a rally, his lawyer confirmed.
The charge marks a significant escalation in the government’s crackdown on dissent. Lissu, from the Chadema party, was detained after a rally in Mbinga, where police used tear gas to disperse crowds.
His lawyer, Jebra Kambole, stated Lissu appeared in a Dar es Salaam court and was charged with treason, a non-bailable offense.
Lissu also faces charges of “publication of false information,” though details remain unclear.
Regional police commander Marco Chilya indicated Lissu was questioned for “inciting the population to block the general elections.”
Human rights lawyer Tito Magoti denounced the arrest as an attempt to silence opposition ahead of October’s elections.
The Chadema party alleges President Samia Suluhu Hassan has reverted to repressive tactics, reminiscent of her predecessor.
Lissu previously warned of “confrontation” if electoral reforms were not implemented.
Chadema plans to petition the High Court for election reforms, citing manipulation in recent local elections.
While Hassan initially eased restrictions, rights groups and Western governments now criticize renewed repression.
This includes arrests, abductions, and murders of opposition figures.Lissu, a former MP and presidential candidate, has been repeatedly detained.