Lissu rejects prison gossip, affirms loyalty to party deputy John Heche
Tundu Lissu, the national chairman of the Tanzanian opposition party Chadema, has publicly rejected rumors that his deputy, John Heche, is responsible for his ongoing imprisonment. Lissu remains in remand facing treason charges and has called for his supporters to focus on legal and political action rather than spreading gossip.
Why it matters
The statement addresses internal party dynamics and political tensions in Tanzania, highlighting the challenges faced by opposition leaders under legal scrutiny.
Dar es Salaam. Chadema national chairman Tundu Lissu, who is in remand facing a non-bailable treason charge, has sent a message to people spreading reports that his assistant, the party’s Vice Chairman for the Mainland, Mr John Heche, is the reason he remains in custody.
Mr Lissu demanded that those spreading such reports desist, declaring that he is prepared to remain in prison until justice is served, and rejected any suggestion that his release depends on anyone else outside the legal process before the courts.
Mr Lissu, who has been in remand for approximately one year and four months over the non-bailable charge, stated this position in the dock at the High Court, Dar es Salaam Sub-Registry on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, after the case hearing was adjourned until Thursday, September 3, 2026, when it will resume.
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