IDU Resolution on Tundu Lissu’s Detention and Tanzanian Democracy

Endorsed by IDU Executive Vice Chairman David McAllister MEP, IDU Executive Committee Meeting, Zagreb, May 1st

The International Democracy Union (IDU),

Expresses deep concern that, more than one year after his arrest on April 9, 2025, Mr Tundu Lissu, Executive Vice Chairman of the IDU, Chairman of CHADEMA and a leading voice for democratic reform, remains in detention under politically motivated charges;

Notes that over the past twelve months, he has reportedly been held without bail, faced repeated delays in judicial proceedings, and has been subject to restrictive detention conditions, including solitary confinement;

Recalls that his arrest followed a peaceful rally calling for electoral reform, raising serious concerns about the use of treason and cybercrime laws to target political opposition;

Emphasises that his detention marked the beginning of a broader pattern in Tanzania, including restrictions on opposition parties, limitations on political participation, and increased pressure on civil society;

Notes that the political situation has further deteriorated following the October 2025 elections, which took place in a climate marked by intimidation and serious doubts about their credibility;

Underlines that without a free and functioning opposition, democratic competition cannot take place and electoral processes lose legitimacy.

The International Democracy Union therefore resolves:

1. To call for the immediate and unconditional release of Tundu Lissu;
2. To cemand that all politically motivated charges against him be dropped and that his fundamental rights be fully respected;
3. To urge the Tanzanian authorities to ensure that CHADEMA and other opposition actors can operate freely and participate fully in political life;
4. To call on the authorities to refrain from using judicial measures to silence dissent and to uphold freedom of expression, assembly, and political participation;
5. To stress that, one year after his detention, the continued restriction of opposition figures reflects a sustained pattern that undermines democratic standards;
6. To reaffirm its solidarity with Tundu Lissu, CHADEMA, and all Tanzanians working for democratic governance;
7. To call on the international community to remain engaged and to continue to speak out against the erosion of democratic standards in Tanzania.