GNU accord ushers in hope
ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR President Dr Hussein Mwinyi and ACT Wazalendo National Chairman Othman Masoud Othman have expressed confidence that a reconciliation accord signed by Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) and ACT Wazalendo yesterday will end recurring political tensions and usher in a new era of unity and stability in the Isles.
The remarks came after the two leaders witnessed the signing of the Joint Declaration and Action Agenda by the ruling CCM and opposition ACT Wazalendo at the State House in Stone Town, marking a fresh effort to resolve longstanding political divisions in Zanzibar.
The accord, signed by CCM Deputy Secretary General for Zanzibar, Dr Mohamed Said Mohamed Dimwa and ACT Wazalendo Deputy Secretary General, Mr Omar Ali Shehe, marks a major milestone in efforts to strengthen national unity, reconciliation, good governance and lasting peace.
Dr Mwinyi described the accord as a major breakthrough that paves the way for implementing constitutional provisions on the Government of National Unity (GNU) under Articles 9(3) and 39 of the 1984 Zanzibar Constitution.
“This step reflects the genuine commitment of Zanzibar’s leaders to continue dialogue, build trust and put the broader interests of the nation and its people first,” Dr Mwinyi said.
He said the declaration lays a strong foundation for national unity, reconciliation and solidarity, while promoting political stability, social cohesion and sustainable economic development in Zanzibar and Tanzania at large.
“Today’s milestone fulfils my vision of strengthening unity, reconciliation and cohesion among the people of Zanzibar so that together they can advance the country’s development for the benefit of all citizens,” he said.
Dr Mwinyi assured citizens and stakeholders of his commitment to overseeing the next phase of the process, including dialogue on agreed reforms and implementation mechanisms.
He said the process will be guided by national interest, truth and integrity to secure a better future for Zanzibar.
He added that the agreement will strengthen confidence among citizens, investors, business leaders and development partners while reinforcing Zanzibar’s political, social and economic outlook. He also called on political and religious leaders, as well as the public, to support the initiative.
The President recalled the 2001 reconciliation process led by former Zanzibar presidents Amani Abeid Karume and Ali Mohamed Shein, which culminated in constitutional reforms and the establishment of the GNU, expressing confidence that the current initiative would achieve similar success.
ACT Wazalendo National Chairman Mr Othman Masoud Othman said the reconciliation process is about safeguarding the nation’s future rather than serving political parties or individuals.
“These efforts are not merely about resolving political differences, but about laying strong and lasting foundations for peace, stability and effective governance,” he said.
He said dialogue began on November 9, 2025, following political uncertainty after the October 2025 General Election under the guidance of former Presidents Karume and Shein. The objective, he said, was to address recurring political tensions and develop lasting solutions.
Mr Othman said the Joint Declaration identifies key reform priorities, including rebuilding public trust, reviewing the Constitution, reforming the electoral system, strengthening the justice sector, improving public service delivery and enhancing local government structures.
According to him, a Joint Committee will first analyse the agreed areas before an Implementation Commission is established through legislation to oversee the reforms.
“Let us work together to educate the public, reject those who seek to undermine this effort and safeguard the reconciliation process,” he urged.
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Mr Othman said Zanzibar’s future depends on national unity, good governance under the rule of law, accountability, political stability and sustainable peace, adding that strong institutions are essential for the Isles to realise their ambition of becoming a regional hub for trade, services and transportation.
Mr Othman said ACT Wazalendo entered the accord in good faith and will continue to place national interests above party or personal considerations while educating the public on the importance of the process.
The signing ceremony was attended by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, former Zanzibar presidents, senior government officials, political party leaders, religious leaders and representatives from public and private institutions.
Earlier, Secretary to the Revolutionary Council and Chief Secretary, Ms Mansura Mossi Kassim, who also serves as Secretary of the Reconciliation Committee, presented the Joint Declaration outlining the agreed reform agenda.
