Tanzania’s opposition leader Tundu Antipas Lissu has been shortlisted among the final three nominees for the European Union’s 2026 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, CHADEMA’s Director of Communication and Publicity, Brenda Rupia, said the European Parliament’s Committees on Foreign Affairs and Development selected Lissu on October 19.
The other finalists are the International Criminal Court (ICC) and Iranian sisters Taraneh and Romina Rahimi, who represent people persecuted by Iran’s regime.
Lissu was nominated by Members of the European Parliament affiliated with the European People’s Party (EPP) and the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR).
According to the statement, the nomination recognises Lissu’s advocacy for freedom of expression, human rights, democracy and the rule of law in Tanzania. It also highlights the efforts of Tanzanians seeking democratic governance despite what the party described as a hostile political environment.
The recognition comes as Lissu remains in detention in Tanzania, where he faces treason charges. CHADEMA has described the charges as politically motivated.
The winner of the 2026 Sakharov Prize is scheduled to be announced on October 22, 2026, while Lissu’s treason verdict is expected on November 6.
The Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought is awarded annually by the European Parliament to recognise individuals and organisations defending human rights and fundamental freedoms.
