KIKWETE: CCM remains pillar of development

ZANZIBAR: FORMER President Jakaya Kikwete has insisted that CCM continues to stand as the main pillar of Tanzania’s development and long-lasting political stability.

Speaking during the closing rally of the ruling party’s campaign in Uzini Constituency at Gana-Kiboje grounds in Zanzibar, Mr Kikwete said CCM has over the decades played a crucial role in shaping the country’s progress and uniting Tanzanians under shared goals of peace and prosperity.

He commended the achievements made under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, describing them as a continuation of CCM’s visionary leadership.

“In the past five years, President Samia has achieved remarkable development results across all sectors,” he said.

“She has continued the good work of her predecessor and delivered visible progress that touches every Tanzanian. These are sufficient reasons to give her another term in office.”

Mr Kikwete emphasised that CCM’s enduring strength lies in its consistent implementation of revolutionary policies that promote social welfare, economic growth, and access to essential services such as education, health, and water supply.

“For decades, CCM has remained grounded in its principles because we believe that sound policies are the foundation for delivering real and sustainable development to our people,” he said, drawing applause from the crowd.

He also pointed out that Zanzibar’s transformation today cannot be compared with the past, crediting President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi for steering tangible socio-economic progress.

Mr Kikwete urged Zanzibaris to re-elect Dr Mwinyi so he can continue implementing strategic plans that empower citizens.

ALSO READ: Ministry drafts new 5-year development plan

“The government has set clear development strategies aimed at boosting agriculture, fishing, and tourism, sectors that directly improve people’s livelihoods,” he explained.

“It is evident that Zanzibar is on the right track towards modernisation and inclusive growth,” he added.

He further noted that the rapid increase in tourist arrivals, particularly through the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, is a sign of the island’s growing global appeal and a source of national pride.

Highlighting inclusivity as a core value of CCM, Mr Kikwete said the party’s policies serve all groups youth, women, the elderly, and people with special needs without discrimination.

“Our party believes in equal opportunity for all Tanzanians,” he stressed, adding; “No one should feel left behind in the country’s journey of development.”

He also urged citizens to ignore groups spreading false rumours or calling for election boycotts, reminding them that voting is both a right and a duty.

“Let us all come out in large numbers on October 29 to vote for CCM and continue building our nation,” he said.

Meanwhile, the CCM Regional Secretary for the South Region said residents have shown great enthusiasm throughout the campaigns, expressing confidence that the party will secure more than 70 per cent of votes at all levels.

CCM candidates for Parliament, the House of Representatives, and council seats in Uzini vowed to work closely with communities to advance local development once elected.