Jailed Tanzanian Opposition Leader Tundu Lissu Reportedly Begins Hunger Strike
Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who is imprisoned on treason charges, has reportedly started a hunger strike due to the obstruction of his right to meet with his lawyers. Meanwhile, prison authorities denied the allegations and stated that Lissu's health is good.
It was announced that CHADEMA party leader Tundu Lissu started a hunger strike on Monday to protest not being allowed to meet with his lawyers. Lissu, who came second in the 2020 presidential elections, was arrested last year on allegations of inciting the public to riot and disrupting the general elections.
CHADEMA spokesperson Brenda Rupia announced in a statement on social media that Lissu refused to eat after his lawyers were prevented from entering the prison. The party's chief legal adviser, Rugemeleza Nshala, stated that Lissu's right to confidentiality was violated during his meetings with lawyers, in contravention of a court order.
Tanzania Prison Services spokesperson Elizabeth Mbezi denied the allegations, stating that Lissu is not on a hunger strike and is safe. Mbezi argued that lawyers are allowed to meet with their clients after identity verification is completed.
Evaluation: The court is expected to announce its decision in the treason trial against Lissu on November 6. While the defense claims the charges are politically motivated, conflicting statements regarding visitation restrictions continue to come from both sides.
Sources
- usnews.com · Link