Tundu Lissu Begins Hunger Strike Over Legal Access Denials

Opposition leader Tundu Lissu began a hunger strike on Monday, October 26, 2026, to protest the denial of private consultations with his legal counsel. Lissu is currently detained at Ukonga Prison on treason charges following an April 2025 arrest after he called for electoral reforms and a boycott of the October 2025 general elections.

The hunger strike follows an October 16 ruling by the High Court of Tanzania, which found that prison officers had breached confidentiality by overhearing Lissu's legal meetings. Despite a court order to end audio surveillance and allow private access, the Chadema party and Lissu's legal team allege that authorities continue to limit or deny such access. Lissu's lawyer, Rugemeleza Nshala, stated that the opposition leader is prepared to stop taking necessary medication to fight for the rule of law.

Lissu has been detained for over 18 months and faces a potential death sentence, with a final judgment scheduled for November 6. The trial takes place amid severe political instability. An inquiry led by Mohamed Chande Othman found at least 518 people died during violence following the 2025 election, though Chadema claims the toll reached 2,000. While the government of President Samia Suluhu Hassan denies widespread abuses, the detention of critics has increased international scrutiny of the administration's human rights record.