The judges found that prosecutors had not established the intention to intimidate the government required for treason. They nevertheless convicted him of incitement over calls to obstruct the 2025 election, according to reporting by The Chanzo and Tanzania’s Guardian.
Lissu disputes the substitution, arguing that he was not charged with that offence and alleging political persecution. The court maintained that he had notice of the related offence and an opportunity to defend himself. His allegation of political interference is the opposition leader’s position, rather than an established finding.
The Chanzo reports that he requested bail pending appeal. No grant of bail was announced at the end of proceedings, and the account does not specify how time already spent in custody will be credited against the sentence.