Tanzania’s opposition leader charged with treason

Tundu Lissu, Tanzania's opposition leader, has been charged with treason. This follows his arrest after a rally in southern Tanzania. The charge relates to his campaign for electoral reform. His slogan is "No Reforms, No Election." The country will hold elections in October.

Lissu plans to challenge President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Samia became president in 2021 after John Magufuli's death. Initially, she was praised for easing authoritarian measures. However, she has faced criticism for targeting opposition members with arrests and abductions.

Lissu argues that free and fair elections are impossible without reforms. He wants changes to the electoral commission's composition. He believes it should not include people appointed by Samia. Authorities claim his campaign incites public unrest against the election.

Lissu has faced multiple arrests in the past. In 2017, he survived an assassination attempt where he was shot 16 times. Afterward, he went into exile but returned briefly in 2020 to run against Magufuli. He left again after complaining about election irregularities.

Lissu returned in 2023 due to new freedoms introduced by Samia. On Thursday, police used tear gas on Chadema supporters during a press conference about Lissu’s arrest. Supporters told the BBC they would continue demanding electoral reforms.

One supporter expressed surprise at police harassment during peaceful rallies. They believe the ruling party, CCM, is behind this crackdown. Rights groups have condemned the government's use of force against critics.

A lawyers' association called Lissu's arrest an abuse of power and a sign of intolerance. Lissu's treason case is adjourned until April 24th.