“Nikitoka Gerezani Ni Mchakamchaka!” – Tundu Lissu Declares After Release, Vows to Face Off With President Samia
Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu has issued a strong statement shortly after being released, declaring that he will resume his political activism and continue pushing for democratic reforms in the country.
In a bold declaration that has since gone viral, Lissu said, “Nikitoka gerezani ni mchakamchaka. Nikitoka tuko barabarani mpaka kieleweke. Tutamkabili huyo mama,” loosely translating to “Once I’m out of prison, it’s action time. We’ll be on the streets until justice is served. We will confront that lady.”
The statement, interpreted by many as a direct reference to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has reignited political debate across the country. Lissu, a prominent member of the Chadema opposition party, has long been one of the fiercest critics of the current administration.
He accused the government of suppressing opposition voices and curtailing freedoms, vowing that his release marks the beginning of a renewed struggle for justice, equality, and constitutional reform in Tanzania.
Supporters of the opposition have welcomed his statement, saying it symbolizes courage and determination to challenge what they describe as “growing authoritarianism.” However, government allies have dismissed the remarks as reckless and aimed at inciting unrest.
Lissu, who survived an assassination attempt in 2017 and has since spent years between exile and political persecution, remains a polarizing figure in Tanzanian politics. His resilience and outspoken nature continue to attract both admiration and criticism.
As of now, authorities have not issued an official response to his latest remarks, but sources within law enforcement have urged calm and warned against any unauthorized public gatherings.
The coming days are expected to reveal whether Lissu’s call for “mchakamchaka” will translate into renewed street protests or a broader political movement against the government.
