Maraga attends Tundu Lissu trial amid diplomatic strains
Kenya’s former Chief Justice, David Maraga (right) greeting Tanzanian opposition leader, Mr Tundu Lissu, when he went to observe the treason trial of the latter at a Kisutu court in Dar es Salaam on May 19, 2025. Courtesy photo
Kenya’s former Chief Justice, David Maraga, arrived in Dar es Salaam on Monday to observe the treason trial of Tanzanian opposition leader, Mr Tundu Lissu.
Announcing his safe arrival on X (formerly Twitter), Mr Justice Maraga stated, “Safely arrived in Dar-es-Salaam. Headed to Court for the Tundu Lissu Court Case.”
His presence not only reinforces the importance of judicial fairness in politically sensitive cases, but also affirms a steadfast commitment to the rule of law across the region.
Mr Lissu, who leads the opposition party CHADEMA, faces charges of treason following an April rally during which he allegedly called for civil disobedience.
The party has since been barred from participating in Tanzania’s October general election after refusing to sign a contentious code of conduct introduced by the National Electoral Commission.
The Mr Maraga, best known for his landmark 2017 decision to annul Kenya’s presidential election--a first in Africa--attended the court session as a senior legal observer. His presence lends the proceedings both credibility and international attention, especially at a time when civic freedoms in Tanzania are under scrutiny.
However, the case was again moved forward to June 2, 2025, after the prosecution said that investigations into the treason charges were still ongoing, with Lissu's lawyers questioning the delay.
“It was truly inspiring to see my brother, Tundu ALissu in high spirits today (Monday) in Court. As a fellow member of Jumuiya, I hold firm in the hope that the legal process ahead will be fair, just, and expeditious--reflecting the highest standards of integrity, independence, and respect for human dignity,” Mr Maraga posted on X.
His (Maraga) visit follows heightened tensions after several Kenyan dignitaries and rights defenders were barred from entering Tanzania.
On Sunday, People's Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua, was detained at Julius Nyerere International Airport and deported alongside Ms Lynn Ngugi, a human rights advocate, and Ms Gloria Kimani, a Council Member of the Law Society of Kenya.
Upon her return to Nairobi, Ms Karua, a senior counsel and former Justice Minister of Kenya, condemned the deportation, saying, “The state cannot be used as a personal tool. You cannot deport people whom you don't like, who are not aligned to your views.” She described the action as a violation of East African Community principles and an affront to democratic oversight.
Earlier today, former Chief Justice Dr Willy Mutunga, along with human rights activists Ms Hanifa Adan and Mr Hussein Khalid, were also detained in Dar es Salaam in what appears to be a wider crackdown on foreign observers.
Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally requested the immediate release of all detained nationals and urged Tanzanian authorities to uphold EAC protocols guaranteeing freedom of movement and civic participation.
In contrast to the diplomatic confrontations, Mr Maraga’s smooth entry and dignified participation in the court proceedings underscore the weight of his legacy and the respect he commands across the region. Legal analysts suggest his presence may serve to temper rising political tensions by reasserting the primacy of constitutional norms.
As Mr Lissu’s trial continues, Mr Maraga’s observant presence stands as a powerful testament to the enduring principles of justice, transparency, and regional solidarity.