Martha Karua detained in Tanzania ahead of Tundu Lissu's court case

In Tanzania, the former Kenyan Justice Minister, Martha Karua, was detained at the main international airport while attempting to attend the court trial of opposition leader Tundu Lissu. Alongside her colleagues, Kenyan lawyer Gloria Kimani and human rights campaigner Lynn Ngugi, Karua faces deportation. Lissu, a prominent figure in Tanzania's opposition, was arrested on treason charges in April and now awaits trial. He argues that the allegations against him are politically motivated, emphasizing that his arrest occurred after he called for electoral reforms in the upcoming elections set for October. The detainment of Karua and her colleagues has drawn criticism from human rights groups, who decried it as an arbitrary act. They have since initiated legal efforts to secure their release, highlighting a crackdown on dissent and opposition in Tanzania amidst rising tensions ahead of crucial elections. Lissu’s Chadema party has also faced restrictions, barred from contesting the election due to non-compliance with electoral commission requirements. The political climate remains charged as the ruling party, CCM, continues to exert control, raising fears of a return to oppressive governance reminiscent of the previous administration under John Magufuli.