ZANZIBAR: ACT-Wazalendo National Chairman, Othman Masoud Othman, has described the signing of the Joint Political Reconciliation Declaration between ACT-Wazalendo and the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) as the beginning of a long-term process to secure lasting peace, political stability and institutional reforms in Zanzibar.
Speaking during the signing ceremony at the Zanzibar State House, Othman said the agreement was the result of months of consultations involving leaders from both parties, whom he commended for placing Zanzibar’s interests above political differences.
He extended appreciation to ACT-Wazalendo’s leadership for entrusting him and party members with the negotiations, while also thanking CCM leaders, including Zanzibar President and CCM Vice-Chairman for Zanzibar, Hussein Ali Mwinyi, for supporting the reconciliation process.
Othman also acknowledged the role played by President Samia Suluhu Hassan and CCM National Chairperson, saying her presence at the ceremony symbolised national commitment to the success of the reconciliation initiative.
According to him, political dialogue was initiated following tensions surrounding Zanzibar’s October 2025 General Election, which created uncertainty over the Isles’ political future.
He said negotiations, facilitated by former Zanzibar presidents, officially began on November 9, 2025, with the objective of identifying key issues that have repeatedly triggered political disputes and proposing sustainable solutions to prevent the recurrence of election-related tensions.
Othman said the declaration provides a framework for building lasting reconciliation, strengthening peace and stability, promoting good governance, protecting citizens’ rights, enhancing accountability and improving the effectiveness of public institutions.
He noted that a joint committee will now be established to conduct a comprehensive review of the agreed reform areas before implementation begins under a legally established mechanism.
Among the priority areas identified are constitutional reforms, electoral system reforms, public service, the justice system and local government administration.
“The objective is not simply to resolve political disagreements between parties, but to lay a strong foundation for Zanzibar’s long-term social, economic and institutional development,” he said.
Othman stressed that sustainable development depends on social cohesion, accountable governance, the rule of law, political stability and strong economic institutions, adding that these pillars are essential for Zanzibar’s future prosperity.
He, however, acknowledged that public opinion remains divided over the reconciliation process. While many Zanzibaris have welcomed the initiative and are hopeful it will succeed, others remain sceptical due to past experiences where similar commitments failed to deliver lasting change.
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He also recognised the existence of a small group opposed to the reconciliation process, including those against the Government of National Unity, but urged political leaders, religious leaders, civil society and citizens to support the implementation of the agreement for the benefit of present and future generations.
“Our responsibility now is to transform this agreement into practical reforms that will guarantee peace, justice and stability for generations to come,” Othman said.