Tanzanian Opposition Leader Tundu Lissu Leader Tundu Lissu Arrested After Rally

Tanzanian police have arrested Tundu Lissu, the chairman of the main opposition party, CHADEMA, shortly after he wrapped up a public rally on Wednesday, 9th April 2025. His detention comes as political tension builds ahead of the country’s general elections later this year.

Call for Electoral Reforms Sparks Tensions

Lissu has been travelling across the country in recent weeks, rallying support under the slogan “No Reforms, No Election”. His message has been clear: unless significant changes are made to the way elections are handled, the opposition will not consider the process legitimate.

According to a statement posted by CHADEMA on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, Lissu was arrested in Mbinga district just after addressing supporters. At the time of reporting, the party said it had no information about where he had been taken.

“The chairman has been arrested with other party members,” the post read. “And the police officers are dispersing the public using teargas at the venue.”

Authorities Remain Silent

When approached for comment, the regional police commander simply stated he was in a meeting and gave no further details. Government officials have so far not released any public statement regarding the arrest.

Critics Accuse Government of Silencing Dissent

Human rights organisations have voiced growing concerns about what they see as a crackdown on opposition voices. Activists claim the government, led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, is tightening its grip on dissent in the run-up to the election. The administration, however, denies these claims, maintaining that it is committed to a free and fair electoral process.

A Survivor and Symbol of Resistance

Lissu is no stranger to political violence. Back in 2017, he survived a shocking assassination attempt after being shot 16 times outside his home. He spent years recovering abroad before making a return to Tanzanian politics.