Law Society in Tanzania demands immediate release of opposition chief

DAR ES SALAAM,  Tanzania 

The Tanganyika Law Society (TLS), has called for immediate and unconditional release of the Chairman of the main opposition party, CHADEMA Advocate Tundu Lissu, noting that his arrest undermines the respect of the legal profession and the principles of justice.

Advocate Tundu Lissu 

Tundu Lissu, a firebrand critic of the current government has been holding rallies across the country as part of his party's "No reforms, no election" campaign was arrested in Mbinga district and charged with treason.

In a statement issued on April 12, 2025 by the President of TLS, Advocate Boniface Mwabukusi, insists  that Lissu's continued detention indicates threats to lawyers and political members in the country.

Advocate Boniface Mwabukusi 

"If this call is not heeded, TLS reserves the right to recommend the termination of dock brief and other voluntary legal services provided by TLS and its Members, as a peaceful means of resisting acts of harassment and politically motivated prosecutions." He said.

TLS has also asked the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to ensure that serious charges such as treason are supported by strong evidence and legal arguments and that political leadership alone cannot be considered an act of treason in accordance with existing laws.

"The arrest of politicians against the law can lead to opposition to government and chaos." He warned.

Advocate Mwabukusi further added that the authorities should take legal and precautionary measures to maintain peace, national unity, and avoid creating state of fear among citizens and politicians towards the upcoming general election later this year.

Courtesy 

The same call is also echoed by the Amnesty International, calling for Lissu's unconditional release.

Responding to news that treason charges were brought against Tundu Lissu, on 10 April, following his arrest on 9 April, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah said:

“The Tanzanian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release Tundu Lissu whose arbitrary arrest and detention comes amid a growing crackdown on opposition leaders ahead of the October 2025 general elections.

“Instead of using these heavy-handed tactics to silence critics, authorities in Tanzania should focus on upholding fundamental human rights in the country, including the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.”