Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu has announced that he will represent himself in his treason trial after claiming that the state has repeatedly blocked his access to legal counsel. Lissu, arrested in April, told the Kisutu Magistrate’s Court that for 68 days, he had been denied private communication with his lawyers.
The court granted his request to act as his own lawyer and directed prison authorities to stop obstructing communication between him and his legal team.
Lissu is facing treason charges over remarks made at a political rally, where he called for electoral reforms under the slogan “No reforms, no elections.” The charge carries a possible death penalty. Despite not yet being convicted, Lissu has been held in the death row wing of the prison and placed under tight surveillance, with limited access to worship.
His party and human rights organizations have condemned his arrest as politically motivated. Amnesty International has called the detention arbitrary and in violation of his rights.
International attention has grown around the case, especially after prominent Kenyan activists and politicians, including Martha Karua and Willy Mutunga, were denied entry into Tanzania in May while attempting to attend the trial.
The case has been adjourned to allow for further investigations. A new hearing date is expected to be announced soon.
