Tanzania’s Tundu Lissu should win the Sakharov Prize

By nominating Tundu Lissu for the European Parliament’s Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought in 2026, the EPP Group sends a message of support for democracy and the rule of law in Tanzania. Facing a death sentence after an unfair trial and persecution, the Tanzanian opposition leader remains a courageous symbol of the fight for democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

"Tundu Lissu has been in detention for more than 500 days because he advocates for free and fair elections and a democratic future for his country. He continues to face the death penalty. There is no doubt about the political nature of his detention. Despite persecution and repression, Tundu Lissu remains steadfast in his democratic convictions. By nominating him, the EPP Group honours this extraordinary courage. The European Union must no longer tolerate the criminalisation of legitimate opposition work or the manipulation of the judiciary in Tanzania," says David McAllister MEP, Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs.

"The struggle of Tundu Lissu highlights the critical erosion of democratic pluralism and constitutional rights in Tanzania. This nomination reinforces the EPP Group’s solidarity with democratic defenders worldwide. We must ensure that the rule of law is used to protect political freedom, in Tanzania and throughout the world," insists Reinhold Lopatka MEP, who nominated Tundu Lissu for the Prize on behalf of the EPP Group.

"Given the strong partnership Europe has with Tanzania, we cannot and will not look away when political persecution, such as that faced by Tundu Lissu, takes place. We will highlight this unacceptable behaviour with his nomination for the Sakharov Prize," states Lukas Mandl MEP, chairing the EPP Group in the Development Committee.

The Conference of Presidents of the European Parliament will choose the laureate from among three shortlisted names on 22 October.