Tanzanian opposition leader detained at Isibania border on his way to attend Raila's burial

Tanzanian authorities have arrested and detained Chadema Deputy Chairperson John Heche at the Isibania One Stop Border Post, while he was on his way to attend Raila Odinga's burial in Bondo, Siaya County.

Taking to social media, Heche revealed that the authorities, who confiscated his passport, did not provide any reason for his detention. 

He further stated that the officers failed to follow the due legal procedure required for making an arrest.

"Nimezuiliwa hapa mpakani, wanataka kunichukua bila kufuata utaratibu. Sina kosa lolote, hata aliechukua passport yangu hajaniambia nina kosa gani," Heche posted on X.

"Watanzania tusikubali nchi yetu kuendeshwa bila kufuata sheria. Nchi bila kufuata sheria ni hatari kwa kila mtu."

Heche was set to represent party leader Tundu Lissu at Raila's burial on Sunday. This followed a failed appeal by Lissu, who is presently detained and facing treason charges, to the courts and Tanzania's President Samia Suluhu to allow him to attend the burial of his 'long-time political friend'. 

"I appeal to you to allow me to attend the funeral of my friend Raila in Kenya. Even if it means travelling in handcuffs to and fro, please allow me to see Raila's body," Lissu appealed.  

The Chadema party leader was arrested and charged with treason for rallying Tanzanians to boycott the General Election slated for October 29, 2025, unless significant reforms are made to the electoral process. 

According to Lissu, the electoral process favoured Suluhu's ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).