The United Nations has called on Tanzanian authorities to free opposition figure Tundu Lissu without delay and grant him compensation, stating that his arrest and prosecution breach international human rights standards.
In findings shared publicly on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, the United Nations Working Group said it examined the circumstances surrounding Lissu’s detention and concluded that there had been “serious violations of human rights in accordance with international law” since his arrest on April 9, 2025.
According to the statement circulated by the opposition party Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo, the UN body determined that the treason charges brought against Lissu were politically driven. It stated that the case “is political and has no legitimate legal basis.”
The Working Group pointed to flaws in the arrest process, saying it did not meet global legal standards. It cited concerns under “Article 9 of international law, especially the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” noting that the handling of the case did not align with protections guaranteed under international frameworks.
The UN further held that charging an individual with treason over political remarks amounts to a violation of the rights to freedom of expression and assembly. These rights are safeguarded under international law and also under the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania.
In its 13-page opinion, the Working Group also raised alarm over restrictions placed on access to Lissu while in detention. It stated that denying his lawyers, party officials, supporters and members of the public access to him was inconsistent with human rights standards.
The UN issued clear recommendations to the Tanzanian government, urging that Lissu be released “immediately and unconditionally.” It also called for him to be compensated for what it described as unlawful detention and pressed for reforms to laws and systems that allow breaches of basic freedoms.
CHADEMA welcomed the findings, saying they supported its long-held position on the matter. The party said the ruling was “confirmation of what we have been saying from the beginning that this case is not criminal but political,” and added that it reflects a wider pattern affecting opposition leaders, activists and critics of the government.
The statement from the party was signed by Brenda Rupia, Director of Communications and Publicity.
Lissu is currently facing treason charges before the High Court of Tanzania in Dar es Salaam. His case has drawn attention both within the country and abroad, with human rights groups earlier raising questions about due process and access to legal counsel.
The UN Working Group stressed that its recommendations go beyond release alone. It said authorities should ensure compensation for what it termed unlawful detention and take steps to prevent similar cases in the future by reviewing laws that permit limits on fundamental rights.
CHADEMA said it would continue to pursue “all lawful legal and diplomatic means to ensure justice is done,” not only for Lissu but also for other Tanzanians who may be affected by restrictive legal frameworks.
As of now, the Tanzanian government has not issued a detailed public reply to the UN opinion. The case remains active before the High Court in Dar es Salaam, even as international attention continues to grow.
