Tanzania opposition leader Tundu Lissu moved to Ukonga Prison amid treason case

Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chadema, has confirmed that its national chairman, Tundu Lissu, has been moved to Ukonga Prison, ending a day of confusion and concern over his whereabouts.

In a statement signed by the party’s Communications and Publicity Director, Brenda Rupia, Chadema informed the public that Lissu had been transferred from Keko Prison, where he had been held since his arrest.

“His family and supporters can visit him by following the standard procedures for inmate visits at the facility,” read the statement.

Chadema’s Vice-Chairman for Mainland Tanzania, John Heche, is expected to visit Lissu at Ukonga Prison today (Saturday) to assess his condition.

“We are closely monitoring his well-being and remain committed to ensuring his rights are upheld,” Heche said.

Lissu, who was the runner-up in the 2020 presidential election, was charged with treason last week after allegedly urging the public to rebel and disrupt upcoming elections. He has not been allowed to enter a plea.

The case has intensified political tensions in the country, especially after the Tanzanian electoral commission announced last weekend that Chadema had been disqualified from the October polls for refusing to sign a code of conduct.

“Any party that did not sign the code of conduct will not participate in the general election,” said Ramadhani Kailima, the commission’s director of elections, adding that the disqualification extends to all by-elections until 2030.

“This is not just about one man. It’s about justice, democracy, and the future of our country,” Ms. Rupia emphasised.

The transfer of Lissu brings some relief to supporters, many of whom had expressed deep worry about his location and health recently.

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