Dar es Salaam. The Tanzanian government has responded to a resolution by the European Parliament calling for the release of opposition figure Tundu Lissu, emphasizing the country’s commitment to the rule of law and judicial independence.
In a statement issued on May 09, 2025, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Tanzania criticized the EU Parliament’s resolution, describing it as based on “incomplete or partisan information” and as an inappropriate interference in the country’s internal affairs.
“Tanzania is a sovereign country with its constitution and is governed by the rule of law,” the statement read. “All legal matters are handled independently by the Judiciary as one of the pillars of the state, in line with national laws and in accordance with international standards and best practices, where the Executive arm of the Government does not interfere with judicial proceedings.”
“Therefore, statements that imply or encourage executive intervention in ongoing court cases are not only inappropriate, but also contrary to the very principle of judicial independence as stipulated in Tanzania’s Constitution and as advocated by the European Union.”
READ: EU Parliament Debates the Arrest of Tanzanian Opposition Leader Tundu Lissu
The government reiterated that it values its partnership with the European Union but expressed concern over what it called a trend of international actors forming judgments without consulting diplomatic channels.
The European Parliament’s resolution, passed on May 8, 2025, called on the Tanzanian authorities to unconditionally release Tundu Lissu, citing politically motivated charges.
“The European Parliament Condemns the arrest of Lissu and expresses grave concern over the charges against him, which appear to be politically motivated and carry the risk of capital punishment,” the resolution reads.
“The European Parliament calls on the Tanzanian Government to immediately and unconditionally release him, ensuring his safety and his right to a fair trial and legal representation on the Tanzanian Government to immediately and unconditionally release him, ensuring his safety and his right to a fair trial and legal representation.”
The European Union remains one of Tanzania’s largest export markets and also a source of government financing through grants and loans. Tanzania and the European Union have enjoyed a solid relationship for years, through member states and collectively as the union.
In its statement, Tanzania maintained that it welcomes the continued support of the European Union and all international partners who engage in good faith with a clear, balanced understanding of the country’s democratic journey and are willing to engage those who are still not familiar with Tanzania’s cultural values.
