Senior Counsel Martha Karua, who doubles up as a prominent Senior Counsel and party leader of the People’s Liberation Party (PLP), arrived in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, to observe the high-profile treason trial of Tundu Lissu, the outspoken leader of Tanzania’s main opposition party, CHADEMA.
Karua’s presence underscores the gravity of the situation, as Lissu’s case has drawn international attention amid allegations of politically motivated persecution and violations of democratic principles ahead of Tanzania’s October 2025 general elections.
Lissu, a former presidential candidate and vocal critic of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government, was arrested on April 9, 2025, following a rally in Mbinga where he called for electoral reforms. Charged with treason—a capital offense—and “publishing false information,” Lissu faces the death penalty.
The charges stem from statements made on April 3, 2025, where he criticized the disqualification of CHADEMA candidates in the 2024 local elections, alleged judicial bias, and hinted at leading a “rebellion” for democratic reforms. His arrest and the subsequent banning of CHADEMA from the upcoming elections have sparked widespread condemnation from human rights groups and international observers.
Karua, attending the hearing at Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court alongside representatives from the East Africa Law Society and Tanganyika Law Society, has raised serious concerns about the trial’s conduct. Lissu’s legal team protested the court’s attempt to hold a virtual hearing, arguing it undermines transparency and his right to a fair trial. Karua echoed these sentiments, stating, ‘Transparency and open justice are non-negotiable principles.’ She joined Lissu’s defense in demanding his physical appearance in court, emphasizing that virtual proceedings erode public trust in the judicial process.
The trial has been marred by troubling violations of Tanzania’s Constitution and international human rights standards. Karua highlighted Lissu’s arbitrary detention, the denial of access to his family and legal counsel, and police brutality against CHADEMA supporters, journalists, and relatives attempting to attend court proceedings.
On April 24, two senior CHADEMA officials, Deputy Chairperson John Heche and Secretary General John Mnyika, were detained while heading to court, further escalating tensions. Reports of tear gas used against supporters outside the courthouse have intensified fears of a broader crackdown on dissent.
Karua, as Convenor of the Pan-African Progressive Leaders Solidarity Network, issued a forceful call to action. She demanded Lissu’s immediate release, the dismissal of all charges, and the restoration of CHADEMA’s eligibility to participate in the October elections. Additionally, she urged the Tanzanian government to implement urgent electoral reforms, including establishing an independent electoral commission, to ensure free and fair polls. “These actions are not only an attack on Tundu Lissu but on the democratic aspirations of all Tanzanians,” Karua stated.
The international community, including Amnesty International and the International Democracy Union, has echoed Karua’s demands, condemning Lissu’s detention as part of a growing pattern of repression. The exclusion of CHADEMA from the elections, justified by their refusal to sign an electoral code of conduct, has been deemed unconstitutional by the party’s legal team.
As Tanzania approaches a critical juncture, Karua’s presence signals a broader regional solidarity with Lissu’s fight for justice. Lissu’s trial, adjourned to April 28, remains a litmus test for Tanzania’s commitment to constitutional rights and human rights standards.
