Overview of the Case
A significant number of individuals, including a well-known businesswoman named Jennifer Jovin, also known as “Niffer,” have been charged with treason in connection with protests following the 2025 general election. These charges were brought before the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court, where Niffer and 239 others appeared for arraignment.
Niffer was arrested just days before the election and made her court appearance on November 7, 2025. She was joined by other accused individuals who had been detained on October 29, 2025—the day of the polls—across different parts of Dar es Salaam. The accused arrived at the court in three Prison Service buses, some of whom showed signs of injuries, including beatings and gunshot wounds. Some were reported to still have bullets embedded in their bodies.
The group includes a diverse range of individuals such as motorcycle taxi riders, students, artisans, bus conductors, mobile money agents, event MCs, mechanics, and decorators. Additionally, the list includes professionals like journalist Simon Makaranga, teachers Lucianus Luchius and John Mawakili, accountant Paulo Malima, and laboratory technologist Benadetha Laizer.
Legal Proceedings
The suspects were charged in five separate counts before three different magistrates, facing charges of conspiracy and treason. However, the magistrates clarified that the Resident Magistrate’s Court does not have jurisdiction over treason cases, which will instead be heard by the High Court once investigations are complete. Since treason is a non-bailable offense, all suspects will remain in remand custody until investigations conclude.
State attorneys informed the court that investigations are ongoing.
First Group: Niffer and 21 Others
The first group, involving Niffer and 21 others, was charged under Preliminary Inquiry (PI) No. 26388 of 2025 before Senior Resident Magistrate Aaron Lyamuya. This case carries three counts, two of which involve Niffer—conspiracy to commit treason and treason individually. Her co-accused also face separate treason charges.
Senior State Attorney Clemence Kato alleged that between April 1 and October 29, 2025, the accused conspired to commit treason. He claimed they plotted to obstruct the 2025 general election in various parts of Ubungo District, intending to overthrow the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania and acting on that intent by causing destruction to government property.
Second Group: 75 Accused Persons
The second case (PI No. 26395 of 2025) involves 75 accused persons, among them businesswoman Paulina Palangyo. They were charged before Senior Resident Magistrate Hassan Makube with two counts—conspiracy and treason—allegedly committed between April 1 and October 29, 2025.
Defense lawyers Peter Kibatala, Dickson Matata, and Paul Kisabo argued that their clients were tortured while in police custody. Mr. Kibatala claimed that Niffer was assaulted by police officers and forced to sign a statement. He also mentioned that 21 of her co-accused were beaten and still had visible injuries.
The prosecution sought additional time to respond, and Magistrate Lyamuya directed that the accused be taken to prison hospitals for treatment and that medical reports be submitted to the court.
Third Group: John Alexander John and 12 Others
The third case involves John Alexander John and 12 others, charged with conspiracy to commit treason and treason before Senior Resident Magistrate Beda Nyaki. Senior State Attorney Fadhili John stated that the offenses were allegedly committed between March and October 29, 2025. The case has been adjourned to November 20, 2025, pending investigation updates.
Fourth Group: 28 Accused Persons
The fourth count, also before Magistrate Nyaki, involves 28 accused persons, all charged with conspiracy and treason. Defense lawyer Dickson Matata argued that his clients had been held in police custody for over five days, during which they were beaten, tortured, and denied access to lawyers and relatives.
One accused, identified as Baraka, was shot in the leg, with the bullet still lodged, causing a serious infection. Mr. Matata urged the court to order medical care for all accused and ensure medical reports form part of the record. Chief State Attorney Margreth Bernard noted that allegations of torture would be addressed during trial.
Magistrate Nyaki ruled that the court had no authority to amend or strike out the charge sheet. He ordered that all suspects receive medical care in prison, with treatment reports to be filed by the Prison Commander.
Fifth Group: 95 Accused Persons
In the fifth case, 95 accused persons were charged with conspiracy to commit treason and treason before Senior Resident Magistrate Hassan Makube. The case carries similar particulars as the previous ones and has been adjourned to November 19, 2025, for mention.