By Burnett Munthali
Tanzania’s opposition leader, Tundu Lissu, who is facing treason charges, appeared in court for the first time in months on Monday, but the hearing was adjourned after he objected to the prosecution’s plan to use secret witnesses in a special enclosed cell.
Lissu has been detained for 10 months since his arrest following an opposition rally where he called for constitutional and electoral reforms ahead of last year’s disputed election.
The trial, which has been delayed several times, is expected to resume on Wednesday, February 11, when the court will rule on Lissu’s objection to the use of secret witnesses.
Lissu, who is representing himself, has argued that the use of secret witnesses would undermine his right to a fair trial and accused the prosecution of trying to conceal evidence.
The opposition leader has been a vocal critic of the government and has called for electoral reforms, which has led to speculation that the charges against him are politically motivated.
Lissu’s detention has drawn international criticism, with human rights groups and Western allies calling for his release and for the government to respect democratic principles.
The trial is seen as a test of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s pledge to pursue national reconciliation after the disputed election.
Lissu’s party, Chadema, has condemned the use of secret witnesses, saying it is a violation of Lissu’s right to a fair trial and undermines the principles of justice.
The party has called for Lissu’s unconditional release and for the government to drop the charges against him.
The international community is closely watching the trial, with concerns that it could impact Tanzania’s democratic record and relations with Western allies.
