In a harrowing turn of events, Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu was arrested last week under dubious charges, as authorities clamped down on political dissent. His party, Chadema, which has been vocal about necessary electoral reforms, found itself disqualified from the upcoming elections. This move reflects a broader trend of repression under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s regime, which has a history of stifling opposition voices.
Lissu faces serious accusations of treason and the dissemination of false information, linked to his support for a boycott of the elections intended for later this year. The government alleges that he sought to rally public sentiment against the electoral process. Chadema’s campaign, titled “No Reforms, No Elections,” emphasises the urgent requirement for vital reforms in Tanzania’s electoral system.
Treason in Tanzania is a grave matter, potentially leading to a death sentence, and those accused of such crimes are typically denied bail. Compounding these issues, on April 12, the Independent National Elections Commission barred Chadema from the electoral race, stemming from the party’s refusal to endorse the 2025 Election Code of Ethics, until reforms were enacted. Gaston Garubindi of Chadema suggests that Lissu is being targeted to undermine the party’s push for change.
Historically, Tanzanian governments have suppressed political opposition, especially during election periods. Under John Magufuli’s administration, before the 2020 elections, numerous opposition leaders and supporters faced arbitrary arrests, as the regime suspended media outlets and restricted communication channels.
As the November 2024 local elections approach, the current government has preemptively arrested hundreds of Chadema supporters and imposed further media restrictions, culminating in the alleged abduction and killing of dissenters. Chadema reported thousands of its candidates being disqualified.
Given these unsettling developments, the international community must urge President Suluhu to amend these oppressive measures, allowing Tanzanians the freedom and rights necessary to participate in genuine democratic processes, ensuring fair elections they rightfully deserve.
Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu was arrested on fabricated charges, leading to his party Chadema’s disqualification from upcoming elections due to calls for electoral reform. The government, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has a history of suppressing political opposition and critical voices, especially ahead of elections. Activists and concerned nations need to pressure the government to reverse these repressive actions to secure fair electoral practices in Tanzania.
The arrest of opposition leader Tundu Lissu and the subsequent disqualification of his party, Chadema, signal a troubling trajectory for democracy in Tanzania. The government’s historical repression of dissenting voices and the latest enforcement of stringent measures highlight an urgent need for electoral reform. It is vital for the international community to advocate for the restoration of basic rights to pave the way for fair elections.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
