The opposition party CHADEMA has condemned the decision by prison authorities at Ukonga Prison to block Bishop Edward Mapunda of the Catholic Diocese of Singida from visiting party leader Tundu Antipas Lissu.
According to a statement signed by CHADEMA’s Director of Communications, Brenda Rupia, Bishop Mapunda traveled from Singida to Dar es Salaam on October 11, 2026 to check on Lissu and pray with him. Despite waiting for hours, he was informed he could not proceed without clearance from the Commissioner of Prisons.
CHADEMA questioned why a pastoral visit was denied, insisting that the bishop’s mission was purely spiritual and humanitarian.
“Does a pastoral visit by a bishop for prayer affect anything to the extent of being blocked?” the party asked in its statement.
The opposition has demanded an explanation from the government and prison authorities, warning that the incident raises serious concerns about religious freedom and the treatment of political detainees.
CHADEMA also urged other faith leaders to follow up on the matter and stand in solidarity.
The incident comes as Lissu remains in custody awaiting a verdict scheduled for November in his treason trial. His defense officially closed last month, with his lawyers arguing that the prosecution failed to prove intent or overt acts amounting to treason.
Prosecutors, however, maintain that Lissu’s remarks at a political rally in April 2025 amounted to an attempt to obstruct the general election and undermine the authority of the government. They argue that his speeches were not mere political statements but deliberate incitement, threatening national security and stability.
Lissu has been in police custody since his arrest in April 2025, marking more than 18 months behind bars. His prolonged detention has become a focal point of political debate, intensifying scrutiny on the fairness of his trial and the broader state of opposition politics in Tanzania.
