TANZANIA’S DPP DROPS TREASON CHARGES AGAINST BUSINESSWOMAN NIFFER

Treason charges against businesswoman Jennifer Jovin, popularly  known as Niffer have been dropped by the Tanzanian government.  The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) informed the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday that the State did not intend to proceed with the case against her.

This decision follows a directive fromPresident Samia Suluhu Hassan on November 18, 2025, instructing the DPP to review such cases.Niffer had faced a potential death penalty if convicted of treason under Tanzanian law.

After her release, Niffer shared reflections from her time in detention. “I thank God for a beautiful day. Today, I have reunited with my family. It was not an easy journey, but we thank God for everything,” Niffer said.

“I do not belong to any political party, and I am not involved in politics in any way. Even the actions that brought us here were just misunderstandings. Investigations have been completed, and President Samia Suluhu has forgiven us, making things easier. I want to thank everyone involved, especially my mother, family, and friends.”

She also called for more public support for incarcerated individuals. “Most of us, when we do charity, only go to orphans. We should also help those in jail provide Pampers, milk for their children, sanitary towels, and clothes. Let’s offer charity to them,” she added. “Being in jail has taught me a lot; I have learned to give thanks and cherish freedom and peace. We often take freedom for granted. The value of freedom and peace is huge.”

The move follows a public appeal by Niffer’s mother, Mwanaisha Isaac, on November 9. In her appeal to President Samia, Isaac asked for forgiveness for her daughter.

“Shikamoo Mama Rais Samia Suluhu, my name is Mwanaisha Isaac, a resident of Bukoba. I am the mother of Jennifer Jovin, also known as Niffer. I beg for forgiveness on behalf of my daughter. I also did not like what she did, and I am asking for forgiveness on behalf of the entire family,” Mwanaisha said. “My daughter is the breadwinner for the entire family. She loves you so much. We all depend on her, and we ask you to forgive her and forgive us.”

According to court documents, Niffer had also faced a separate charge of conspiracy to commit treason. The case was linked to a situation where 21 other individuals were charged with treason over allegations of destroying government property and infrastructure during unrest.