CHADEMA official denies linking reform campaign to election violence

John Mnyika, the Secretary General of CHADEMA, testified in the High Court of Tanzania regarding the treason trial of party chairman Tundu Lissu. Mnyika rejected prosecution claims that the party’s ‘No Reforms, No Election’ campaign was intended to incite election violence or disrupt the 2025 electoral process.

Mnyika stated that the policy was adopted by the party’s Central Committee in December 2024, months before the April 3, 2025, meeting where Lissu delivered the disputed remarks. He maintained that the campaign’s objective is to pursue constitutional and legal reforms through democratic means to ensure free and fair elections, rather than directing supporters to commit acts of violence, such as burning polling stations or damaging property.

During cross-examination by State Attorney Nasoro Katuga, Mnyika addressed various aspects of CHADEMA’s operations, including its constitution, funding, and political principles. He affirmed that the party believes in patriotism, freedom, and rights, and clarified that Lissu remains a loyal Tanzanian citizen.