Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu has told a court that he will represent himself in a treason case, accusing authorities of denying him access to legal counsel since his arrest in April. Treason in Tanzania carries the death penalty.

Lissu, a senior figure in the Chadema party, made the declaration on Monday before a packed courtroom, saying he had not been allowed to consult privately with his lawyers during the 68 days he has been in custody.

"All the 68 days they have not been allowed to see me or speak to me," he said.
"It is time to step aside and let me do what I must do. From now on I will be my own lawyer," he added.

Lissu also revealed he has been placed in the prison's death row wing despite not being convicted.
"I am under constant surveillance by day and night," he said, also stating that he had been denied his right to worship.

Chadema was barred from taking part in the upcoming October elections after it declined to sign an electoral code of conduct. Lissu, known for his sharp criticism of the government, has insisted that his party will not take part in any election without electoral reforms. He appeared in court wearing a shirt printed with the words "No Reforms, No Election."

His arrest has been condemned by international rights groups, including Amnesty International, who have demanded his immediate and unconditional release.

Chadema has accused President Samia Suluhu Hassan of reviving the oppressive tactics of former president John Magufuli. In May, two human rights activists from Kenya and Uganda who travelled to Tanzania in solidarity with Lissu were detained and later alleged they were tortured and sexually abused while in custody.

This is the most serious charge Lissu has faced, though he has been arrested multiple times in the past.