There has been widespread misinformation on X (formerly Twitter) claiming that Tanzanian opposition leader and CHADEMA chair Tundu Lissu has been released after winning his treason case.

That claim is false. Lissu has not been released.

The High Court of Tanzania in Dar es Salaam has adjourned his treason trial to November 3, 2025, just days after the general election. This means Lissu will remain in remand until the case resumes.

The court’s decision came after the prosecution failed to present a new witness and requested more time to reorganize its case. Judges also rejected key digital evidence, which disrupted the prosecution’s witness lineup.

During the hearing, Lissu opposed the adjournment, arguing that the delay was politically motivated and intended to keep him behind bars until after the elections. His request for bail was denied, as treason is considered a non-bailable offence under Tanzanian law.

The court ruled that the trial would continue after the elections.

As of now, Lissu remains in custody and John Heche, CHADEMA’s Deputy Chairperson, is still missing following his arrest on October 22.