The High Court's Dar es Salaam Sub-Registry has set November 6, 2026, as the date for delivering its judgment in the treason case against Chadema national chairman Tundu Lissu. The trial, which began over a year ago, concluded on September 29 after the prosecution and defence presented their final submissions. Lissu is charged with treason under Section 39(2)(d) of the Penal Code, Revised Edition 2022, for allegedly showing intent to threaten the Government.
According to the prosecution, Lissu made statements and published material online on April 3, 2025, that incited the public to prevent the 2025 General Election. The prosecution cited statements in which Lissu allegedly said the opposition would prevent the election, mobilise rebellion, and disrupt the polls in pursuit of political change. The case is being heard by a three-judge panel consisting of Justices Dunstan Ndunguru, James Karayemaha, and Ferdinand Kiwonde.
During the trial, the prosecution presented evidence from 17 witnesses, while the defence presented evidence from five witnesses. State Attorney Nassoro Katuga argued that the prosecution had met the required legal threshold, establishing the charge beyond reasonable doubt. He said the prosecution's sole objective was to prove the charge under the provision, which is being applied for the first time in this case.
Lissu's defence team, on the other hand, argued that the prosecution had failed to prove the charge based on the evidence presented in court. Lissu presented his final submissions from September 23 to 28, while the prosecution presented its final submissions on September 29. The defence team had previously faulted police witnesses over contradicting evidence.
Justice Ndunguru thanked the parties and members of the public who attended the proceedings. He also acknowledged disruptions caused by ringing mobile phones during the hearing but said the judges had not been provoked into invoking Section 114 of the Penal Code. The judge said the court needed time to consider the lengthy evidence and final submissions.
The judge noted that the case involved a charge being heard under the provision for the first time, which required careful consideration. As a result, the court will deliver its judgment on November 6, 2026. Lissu has been in court for over a year, and the verdict is eagerly awaited by his supporters and the general public.
The outcome of the case may have significant implications for Tanzania's political landscape. Lissu's case has garnered attention from various stakeholders, and the court's decision will be closely watched. The court's judgment will determine whether Lissu committed the offence of treason.
Key points
- The High Court's Dar es Salaam Sub-Registry will deliver its judgment on November 6, 2026.
- Lissu is charged with treason under Section 39(2)(d) of the Penal Code, Revised Edition 2022.
- The trial has lasted about a year, with the prosecution presenting evidence from 17 witnesses and the defence presenting evidence from five witnesses.
