Tundu Lissu treason trial: John Heche testifies in Dar es Salaam

The treason trial of CHADEMA Chairman Tundu Lissu continued in the High Court of Tanzania in Dar es Salaam. During the defense stage, John Heche, Vice President of the party's continental branch, provided testimony as the fifth defense witness.

During cross-examination by State Prosecutor Ignas Mwinuka, Heche was questioned regarding the citizenship of Lissu’s wife and children. Heche stated he was unaware of their specific citizenship status, though he noted that Tanzania does not permit dual nationality. He also addressed the death of his brother, Suguta Heche, testifying that he received reports of the incident from the Regional Police Commander rather than witnessing the alleged torture directly.

Heche also raised the issue of the alleged kidnapping of former ambassador Humphrey Polepole. The testimony touched upon Polepole’s resignation in July 2025 and his subsequent reported abduction from his home in Dar es Salaam in October 2025. The trial, presided over by a three-judge panel, examines accusations of treason stemming from statements made by Lissu in April 2025.