The High Court of Tanzania has rejected the petition filed by Tundu Lissu, Chairman of the opposition party CHADEMA, seeking a review of the Kisutu Magistrate Court’s decision to postpone his case. Lissu is facing charges related to the publication of false information online.

The court ruled that Lissu’s petition should have been filed after the main case was concluded. On June 2nd, the Kisutu Magistrate’s Court postponed the case after a request from the prosecution. The defense team disagreed, arguing the delay was unjustified.

Speaking after the ruling, Lissu’s lawyer, Hekima Mwasipu, expressed that the reasons for the delay were not legally sound. Despite the court’s rejection, Mwasipu said they were satisfied with the ruling and would consider filing a new petition once the case at Kisutu is over.

Tensions also flared when Lissu claimed prison officers had seized his documents and prevented communication with his lawyers.

The High Court ruling, delivered by Judge Elizabeth Mkwizu, sided with the government’s objections, agreeing that the court lacked jurisdiction to review the postponement. Outside the court, Mwasipu confirmed they would take further legal action once the main case is concluded.