CHADEMA Leaders Denied Access to Party Chairman Lissu in Ukonga Prison, Raises Human Rights Concerns

CHADEMA has said its leaders were blocked from visiting party chairman Tundu Antipas Lissu at Ukonga Prison. The party claims the government used the prison authorities to stop the visits. CHADEMA called it an unusual restriction. They said it violates basic prisoner rights.

The party’s Director of Communications, Brenda Rupia, said several leaders were denied entry in recent days. Central Committee member Godbless Lema and Secretary-General John Mnyika tried to see Lissu but were stopped. Rupia said the orders came from higher authorities. The party described this as political interference in prison operations.

On November 30, 2025, Secretary-General Mnyika went to the prison. Officers told him that no CHADEMA leaders could meet Lissu. The party said this is a clear violation of his rights. Rupia added that prisoners have the right to receive visits from family and party colleagues.

CHADEMA said this reflects misuse of state power to harass opposition politicians. They condemned the actions as politically motivated. The party warned that such moves threaten democracy. They said government institutions should not target political figures.

The party demanded an explanation from the prison authorities. CHADEMA called on local and international observers to follow the case. They want to ensure Lissu’s safety. Rupia said the party will take legal, political and diplomatic steps to protect the chairman.

Civil society and human rights advocates have criticized the move. They stressed that political prisoners’ rights must be protected. CHADEMA’s actions highlight growing concern over the treatment of opposition figures. The party promises to continue monitoring the situation closely.