The European Parliament has strongly condemned the arrest of Tundu Lissu, the leader of Chadema, Tanzania’s main opposition party. In a resolution debated on May 7th 2025, MEPs expressed serious concern over the politically motivated charges against Lissu, which could lead to a death sentence. The resolution calls for his immediate and unconditional release.

Lissu, who was arrested on April 9th 2025, after participating in a peaceful rally advocating for electoral reforms in Mbinga, Ruvuma Region, faces charges of treason and publishing false information under Tanzania’s cybercrime laws. These charges have been described as politically driven, reflecting ongoing repression against opposition voices ahead of Tanzania’s October 2025 elections.

The European Parliament also voiced its opposition to the death penalty, calling for the Tanzanian government to stop its crackdown on opposition parties, civil society and journalists. The resolution demands that Lissu be granted a fair trial and legal representation and that Tanzania’s laws be reformed to align with international human rights standards.

Additionally, the European Parliament called for Chadema’s full participation in the upcoming elections and urged Tanzania to engage in inclusive dialogue with all political parties. The resolution also emphasized the need for the European Union to monitor Lissu’s trial closely and to consider further actions if the human rights situation in Tanzania continues to worsen.

The EU has also expressed its commitment to supporting democratic reforms in Tanzania, urging the country to abolish the death penalty and uphold freedom of expression and judicial independence.

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