CUF hails political reconciliation in Zanzibar as a big step toward everlasting stability

ZANZIBAR: THE Civic United Front (CUF) has welcomed the ongoing political reconciliation efforts in Zanzibar, describing them as a crucial step towards building lasting unity, stability and national cohesion after years of political divisions.

In an exclusive interview with the Daily News, the CUF Director of Politics and Public Affairs, Ali Makame Issa, said the current initiative reflects a long-standing aspiration among Zanzibaris to foster peaceful coexistence and strengthen relations among political actors, particularly after elections which have often been followed by tensions between political parties and the government.

Mr Issa said the dialogue and reconciliation agenda spearheaded by Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, coupled with discussions involving senior political leaders, has created hope for a more united Zanzibar founded on mutual understanding and cooperation.

“This process offers an opportunity to build genuine unity and durable reconciliation. For many years, political differences have created divisions, but the ongoing efforts can help establish a new chapter of cooperation for the benefit of all Zanzibaris,” he said.

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According to him, successful reconciliation would not only strengthen political stability but also create a conducive environment for social and economic development by allowing citizens and leaders to focus on shared priorities rather than political disputes.

Mr Issa noted that Zanzibar’s peace and stability are closely linked to the broader peace of Tanzania, stressing that national unity has always been one of the country’s greatest strengths.

Additionally, he urged Tanzanians to draw lessons from the country’s founding leaders, particularly the late Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, whose vision of unity helped bridge ethnic, religious and regional differences and laid the foundation for a cohesive nation.

He said the values of unity, solidarity and nationhood championed by the country’s founders remain relevant today and should continue guiding political leaders and citizens alike.

The CUF official expressed optimism that the reconciliation process underway in Zanzibar would serve as a model for strengthening political tolerance and national unity across the country.

“We believe what is taking place in Zanzibar today will provide important lessons for all Tanzanians. It reminds us that despite our political differences, we remain one people with a shared responsibility to safeguard unity, peace and the Union,” he said.

Mr Issa called on political leaders, parties and citizens to support the reconciliation efforts and preserve the spirit of dialogue, saying lasting peace can only be achieved when all stakeholders place national interests above partisan considerations