By Adonis Byemelwa
The day September 7, 2017, began like any other in Tanzania’s political landscape, but it would soon etch itself into history with a brutal mark. Dodoma, the nation’s capital and the seat of political power was about to become the backdrop of a chilling saga of violence and survival. Tundu Lissu, a formidable opposition leader and a voice of dissent in a climate stifled by authoritarianism, was about to face an ordeal that would capture the world’s attention.
As dawn broke over the Public Leaders’ Residence, the air was heavy with the tension of the political climate. Lissu, known for his fearless critique of the government, was seated in his vehicle, seemingly secure.
But in an instant, that security was shattered. Armed assailants launched a savage attack, unloading more than 30 bullets into his car. The sounds of gunfire echoed through the calm morning, marking the beginning of a horrifying assault.
Sixteen bullets struck Lissu’s body, turning his vehicle into a scene of carnage. The violence was brutal and unrelenting, a stark message of intimidation against those who dared to challenge the status quo. Yet, amidst the chaos and bloodshed, Lissu’s story took a dramatic turn. Against all odds, he survived. His recovery was nothing short of miraculous—a testament to his indomitable will and the efforts of his medical team.
Lissu’s survival quickly transcended from a national story to a symbol of defiance. As he lay in recovery, his resilience became a beacon of hope for many. His survival was not just about a man who endured a physical assault; it represented a stand against the forces that sought to silence dissent and undermine democratic values.
In the years that followed, Tundu Lissu’s return from exile in Belgium was met with both awe and relief. His unwavering commitment to his political cause and his fight for justice continued to challenge the boundaries of political resistance. Despite the trauma of the attack and the ongoing threats, Lissu’s voice remained a powerful instrument in advocating for change and accountability.
His story is a testament to courage in the face of grave danger, a narrative that continues to inspire those who believe in the power of resilience and the quest for justice. The scars of September 7, 2017, are a constant reminder of the high cost of dissent in a world where authoritarianism still looms large, but Tundu Lissu’s survival and ongoing activism underscore the enduring spirit of those who dare to confront oppression.
The attack on Lissu raised numerous questions that remain unanswered to this day. Who were the assailants that targeted Lissu with such brutality? Who orchestrated this deadly plot? Why were the security guards absent from their posts at the Public Leaders’ Residence on the fateful day? Why were the CCTV cameras removed from the premises shortly after the attack?
The lack of investigation by the police and security agencies into such a high-profile case has only fueled suspicions of governmental complicity. Why did the government refuse to cover Lissu’s medical expenses, despite legal obligations? Why did it prohibit prayer services for his recovery and strip him of his parliamentary seat while he was still undergoing treatment in Europe?
The subsequent announcement by the police to arrest Lissu upon his return for the 2020 elections further intensified concerns. Despite these challenges, the government has yet to compensate Lissu for his parliamentary entitlements and medical costs, adding to the cloud of unanswered questions.
The unanswered questions surrounding the attack suggest a disturbing implication: the ruling CCM party’s involvement in the assassination attempt, as it seemed to have aimed for Lissu’s death even after he miraculously survived.
The pattern of violence against government critics, including the disappearance of Ben Saanane, the murder of journalist Mwangosi, and the assassination of Commander Alphonse Mawazo, points to a troubling trend. The ongoing abductions of activists, such as the kidnapping and attempted murder of Sativa and the disappearance of Kipanya and Soka, further implicate the CCM government in these crimes.
As the government continues to face accusations of complicity, Tanzanians are left grappling with a harsh reality: the suppression of dissent and the erosion of democratic principles. The public’s demand for accountability grows louder, with calls for a transparent investigation and independent inquiry into these incidents. The government’s reluctance to address these issues has only intensified scrutiny and criticism.
The assassination attempt on Tundu Lissu captured global attention, drawing condemnation from human rights organizations and international observers. Lissu’s survival and his subsequent return from exile in Belgium have marked him as a steadfast advocate for democracy and justice. Despite the severe injuries and trauma, he endured, Lissu remains a vocal critic of the government, championing political reforms and human rights. His unwavering stance in opposition politics has earned him both respect and support, both within Tanzania and internationally.
In a poignant statement, Alicia Magabe, Tundu Lissu’s wife and a dedicated lawyer, bravely addressed the chilling uncertainty surrounding the assassination attempt on her husband. Shot over 30 times, Lissu survived but remains a symbol of resilience. From Nairobi Hospital, Magabe voiced her fears, stating, “I want to know who wanted my husband dead and why. Our family is living in fear.”
Though she has forgiven the attackers personally, Magabe is adamant about seeking justice, criticizing the lack of progress in the investigation. “Forgiveness does not mean I don’t want justice,” she stressed.
Despite his trauma, Lissu’s resolve remains unshaken, as he proclaimed, “I have survived to tell a tale.” Magabe is calling for a transparent investigation and accountability for the attackers. “We will continue to fight for justice,” she vowed.
Opposition leaders in Tanzania have also voiced their condemnation of the attack. Freeman Mbowe, Chairman of the Chadema party, described the assault as an attempt to undermine democracy and silence opposition voices. “The brutal attack on Lissu is a clear indication of the lengths to which the government will go to suppress dissent. We will not be silenced; we will continue to stand up for our rights and demand justice,” Mbowe stated.
Bishop Benson Bagonza of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT), Karagwe Diocese, joined the chorus of voices demanding accountability. “The assault on Mr. Lissu is a grave injustice that not only targets him but also undermines the principles of democracy and human rights. We stand in solidarity with him and call for a thorough and transparent investigation into this heinous act,” Bishop Bagonza said.
Former President John Magufuli’s response to these crimes was controversial. His administration was criticized for downplaying and mishandling the incidents. Critics argue that Magufuli’s government failed to address the underlying issues of political violence and human rights abuses, reflecting a broader pattern of authoritarianism and suppression of dissent.
Tundu Lissu’s relentless fight for democracy and human rights underscores the urgent need for accountability and justice. Both the international community and Tanzanian citizens are calling for transparency and decisive action from the government.
With Tanzania grappling with these issues, the pursuit of justice and the safeguarding of democratic values have become paramount. The world is watching, and the lessons from Lissu’s story underscore the critical importance of defending these principles in the face of adversity.
