Tundu Lissu, leader of Tanzania’s CHADEMA party, has been moved to Ukonga Prison after being charged with treason. The development has amplified scrutiny of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s human rights record as she campaigns for re-election. The reasons for Lissu’s transfer remain undisclosed, with CHADEMA expressing concerns over the treatment of political opposition.
Tundu Lissu, the leader of Tanzania’s primary opposition party, CHADEMA, has been relocated to a different prison, as confirmed by the party on Saturday. This announcement followed a day of uncertainty regarding his whereabouts. Lissu, who faces treason charges, has been under scrutiny amid the re-election campaign of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who asserts her commitment to human rights despite increasing concerns over her administration’s treatment of political dissent.
CHADEMA’s spokesperson, Brenda Rupia, indicated that the party had met with officials from the Tanzania Prisons Service and received confirmation of Lissu’s transfer to Ukonga Prison. However, the reason for this transfer remains unclear, as there has been no response from Elizabeth Mbezi, the Prisons Service spokesperson, concerning the situation or the charges against Lissu.
On Friday, CHADEMA faced difficulties when party officials, along with Lissu’s family and lawyers, attempted to visit him at his previous facility in Dar es Salaam, where he had been detained since April 10. Lissu was charged with treason for allegedly urging public rebellion and disruption of the upcoming elections but was not permitted to enter a plea regarding these allegations.
Additionally, the election commission announced CHADEMA’s disqualification from the upcoming election due to its refusal to sign a code of conduct related to electoral reforms. While President Hassan initially received praise for easing restrictions on political diversity since taking office in 2021, she now faces increased backlash concerning her government’s rising arrests and suspicious actions against political opponents.
In summary, Tundu Lissu of CHADEMA has been moved to Ukonga Prison amidst treason charges as Tanzania prepares for elections. This situation has intensified scrutiny on President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s human rights record and governance. Despite initial improvements in political freedom, recent actions raise concerns regarding the treatment of opposition figures in Tanzania.
Original Source: theprint.in
