Check against delivery! 

Thank you very much Chair and thanks to all the Honourable Members for their contributions to this debate.

Let me first start by underlining that I am pleased that the EU’s recent engagement with Tanzania has been intensified, including through holding a good first partnership dialogue in December last year, and the visit of Foreign Minister Kombo this year in April.  

We are convinced that a credible and transparent electoral process in Tanzania is key to consolidate a vibrant and healthy democracy. It unlocks business, trade and investment potential and helps Tanzania make progress towards achieving its long-term development goals.  

We deplore the arrest of and the charges against Tundu Lissu and the disqualification of his party, Chadema, from participating in the elections.    

These concerns were raised directly with Foreign Minister Kombo during his visit by both High Representative Kallas and also European Parliament Vice-President Omarjee.  

I assure you that the EU Delegation and the EU Member States in Tanzania are monitoring closely the political situation, following the legal proceedings and reaching out in different bilateral contacts with the government.  

While we cannot interfere with the judicial process, we urge the authorities to ensure a fair trial for Tundu Lissu, to respect his fundamental rights and ensure the integrity of the upcoming elections.  

Let me also stress the EU’s strong and principled position against the death penalty in all cases and all circumstances. We call on Tanzania to take positive steps towards its full abolition, in line with the worldwide trend. 

As a longstanding partner of the Tanzanian people with shared common goals, the EU remains committed to supporting dialogue and inclusivity in society, for the benefit of all citizens. 

We are keen to further intensify our constructive dialogue with Tanzania on such matters, also with the support of the European Parliament.   

Thank you. 

Link to the video (starting at 8:50): https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-271386