Martha Karua, the leader of Kenya’s People’s Liberation Party (PLP) and former running mate to Raila Odinga in the 2022 presidential election, arrived in Tanzania on Thursday 24th April, to show solidarity with opposition leader Tundu Lissu. Karua is attending Lissu’s treason trial at Kisutu Magistrate Court, where Lissu faces charges that have drawn international attention.

Karua, a well-known human rights advocate, strongly condemned the charges against Lissu, calling them politically motivated and a threat to political competition, especially with the upcoming elections in Tanzania. She criticized the government’s actions, describing them as an attempt to restrain political opposition during an important election period.

Lissu, who has been a vocal advocate for electoral reforms under the slogan “No Reforms, No Election,” has argued that without changes to the election system, participating in the elections would legitimize political oppression and inequality. His arrest has sparked widespread criticism.

Karua shared her visit on social media, stating, “At the magistrate’s court Kisutu Dar es Salaam to observe the treason case against @TunduALissu with, among others, Mr. Seka, Secretary-General of @ealawsociety, and Mr. Mpoke, a senior lawyer and former vice-chair of @TanganyikaLaw.” She condemned the charges as an attack on democratic space, emphasizing the importance of standing in solidarity with opposition leaders facing political repression.