Tanzania’s main opposition leader Tundu Lissu has appeared in court for the first time since his arrest on treason charges last month.
Lissu, who is also the leader of the Chadema party, raised his fist in a gesture of defiance and told his supporters not to fear.
He was arrested on April 9 following a rally where he called for electoral reforms before the general elections scheduled for October.
Lissu has been charged with treason and publishing false information online, which allegedly incited rebellion and accused police of electoral misconduct.
He denies the charges and faces the death penalty if convicted. Despite heavy security deployment, Lissu’s supporters gathered outside the court to show their solidarity.
The court had previously attempted to conduct hearings virtually, but Lissu and his legal team opposed this, citing the need for transparency and due process.
