Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu has been moved to Ukonga Prison amidst treason charges, heightening scrutiny on President Hassan’s human rights record. CHADEMA, Lissu’s party, reported this development after concerns over his safety and location. The government faces criticism for recent actions against political opponents, contrasting Hassan’s earlier promises to improve human rights.
Tanzania’s main opposition party, CHADEMA, announced on Saturday that its leader, Tundu Lissu, has been transferred to a new prison. This update follows a day of uncertainty regarding his location. Lissu is currently charged with treason, which has intensified scrutiny on President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s human rights practices as she prepares for re-election in late October. Although Hassan asserts her government’s commitment to human rights, the critique continues to grow.
Brenda Rupia, a spokesperson for CHADEMA, disclosed that party leaders met with officials from the Tanzania Prisons Service, who confirmed Lissu’s transfer to Ukonga Prison. Requests for comments from the Tanzania Prisons Service went unanswered. Gerson Msigwa, a government spokesperson, emphasized that any public statements about Lissu’s case are the responsibility of the involved authorities.
Previously, CHADEMA reported that attempts by party officials, Lissu’s lawyers, and family to see him in Dar es Salaam were unsuccessful. Rupia stated that the reasons for his transfer remain unclear. Last week, Lissu was charged with treason following a speech urging public rebellion and election disruption.
This development comes alongside the election commission’s recent decision to disqualify CHADEMA from the upcoming election due to their refusal to sign a code of conduct amid demands for electoral reforms. President Hassan garnered praise after taking office in 2021 for easing restrictions on political opponents and media censorship; however, recent arrests and allegations of abductions of political figures have drawn significant criticism from human rights advocates.
Tundu Lissu’s transfer to a different prison highlights ongoing tensions in Tanzania’s political climate as the country approaches elections. While President Hassan’s administration initially appeared to relax political oppression, increasing reports of human rights violations and recent charges against Lissu cast doubt on her commitment to uphold democratic practices. The actions of CHADEMA and the government’s handling of the situation will likely heavily influence public perception as the election nears.
Original Source: theprint.in
