A Day in Court: Lissu Cross-Examines Key Witness in Treason Trial
Join us for a look into the courtroom drama as Tundu Lissu, Chairman of Chadema, directly questions a police official in his ongoing treason case. It's a reminder of the intricate dance of truth and testimony within legal proceedings.
It's been a busy day in court as the treason case against Chadema Chairman, Tundu Lissu, continues. The courtroom recently saw Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Amin Mahamba conclude his testimony. What followed was a direct and intense cross-examination by Lissu himself, digging into the details of the evidence presented against him.
The core of the case revolves around a single charge of treason, specifically concerning statements Lissu allegedly made about disrupting the 2025 General Election. Prosecutors claim that on April 3, 2025, Lissu incited the public, saying things like, "If they say this stance signals rebellion, it's true, because we say we will prevent the election, we will mobilize rebellion, that's how we get change." He's also quoted as saying, "We are going to make a real ruckus, especially this election, we are really going to mess it up... we are going to make a terrible ruckus."
The Cross-Examination Unfolds
ACP Mahamba, who led the investigative team related to alleged election disturbances on October 29, 2025, presented his testimony. After he finished, Lissu requested that Mahamba's police statement be accepted as defense evidence. The prosecution agreed, and it became Exhibit 15D for the defense.
Lissu then used this very document to question Mahamba, highlighting discrepancies between his verbal testimony and his written statement. The questions were sharp:
- Lissu: Are you an expert police officer? Shahidi: Correct.
- Lissu: If I say you were promoted by filing false cases, what would you say? Shahidi: Not true.
- Lissu: If I say you were promoted by torturing suspects, what would you say? Shahidi: Not true.
- Lissu: If I say you have no integrity and are unfit to wear a police uniform, what would you say? Shahidi: Not true.
- Lissu: Did you write a witness statement? Shahidi: I didn't write a statement because I was just an investigator.
- Lissu: But here I have a statement from ACP Amin Mahamba. Who is it? Shahidi: My statement when I was interviewed.
Lissu then systematically pointed out where key details Mahamba had just testified to in court—like working in a specific unit (Unit X) that handles internet crimes and national security threats, his training at Moshi Police College, his roles, and achievements—were completely missing from the written statement he signed.
Why This Matters
This dynamic courtroom exchange isn't just about legal battles; it highlights the crucial importance of clarity, consistency, and truthful testimony, especially in high-stakes cases. For those of us who value a peaceful mind and clear communication, observing how evidence is challenged and verified can offer a deeper appreciation for the structured search for truth. It reminds us that details truly matter, and questioning can bring a refreshing dose of transparency to any situation, helping us to listen more carefully and discern more wisely in our own daily lives.
The case has been adjourned until tomorrow, Tuesday, August 11, 2026, when Lissu will continue his cross-examination of the witness.
Written by Limmizen Newsroom
Originally reported by Mwananchi. This piece is a Limmizen rewrite in our own voice.