CHADEMA chairperson Tundu Lissu has informed the Kisutu High Court that he has decided to represent himself in the treason case against him. He says that he was forced to do that after police denied him access to meet privately with his lawyers since his detention more than two months ago.
Speaking before Chief Resident Magistrate Franco Kiswanga at the start of the hearing, Lissu said, despite having a team of more than 30 lawyers he appointed to represent him, he has never been allowed to see them privately, exchange documents, or receive legal aid properly while in prison.
“In the 68 days since I was indicted on treason charges, I have never been allowed to meet with my lawyers in private. They’ve been coming to prison, but they’re told they’re not allowed to talk to me. We don’t have a chance to exchange documents or write anything,” said Lissu.
Citing violations of his legal rights, Lissu cited Rule 13 of the *Prison Management Regulations, 1987*, alleging that his right to legal aid has been violated against Tanzanian law and international treaties protecting the rights of defendants.
Lissu added that his move to represent himself is aimed at absolving his lawyers of undue blame due to the restrictions imposed by the prison authorities.
“They’ve fought for me a lot. But after 68 days, if they still can’t see me, I don’t want a single lawyer to be blamed for something that isn’t their fault. From now on, I will defend myself. I have legal knowledge, I have been a lawyer for 22 years in this court,” he said.
In addition to complaints about the lack of legal assistance, Lissu also described being denied the right to worship while in prison. He claimed that since his arraignment in Ukonga Prison, he has never been allowed to participate in Christian services held every Sunday and on holidays, which violates his fundamental right to freedom of religion.
“Some inmates are allowed to pray every Sunday. I’m the only one who has been blocked for no apparent reason. This is my right as a human being, even when I am in custody,” he lamented.
Lissu, a prominent opposition leader and a thorn in the side of Tanzania’s ruling Government, appeared in court for the first time on April 10, 2025, facing charges of treason and posting false information online.
The case has continued to draw attention from human rights defenders at home and abroad, particularly regarding the security environment and rights of political suspects in Tanzania.
