DAR ES SALAAM: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan called on Tanzania to cherish the legacy of Zanzibar’s founder and first President, Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume, as the nation marked the 53rd anniversary of his assassination yesterday.
In a statement on her X account, President Samia urged every Tanzanian to remember their duty to up- hold peace, unity, solidar- ity and humanity, and to continue diligently build- ing the country’s welfare.
Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume was shot to death on April 7th, 1972, while playing `bao’ at the head- quarters of the Afro-Shi- razi Party in Kisiwandui, Zanzibar Town.
The solemn commem- oration of Mzee Karume saw Union Vice-President Dr Philip Mpango and Zanzibar Second Vice-President Hemed Suleiman Abdulla leading hundreds of citizens in a special prayer (Khitma) and the laying of wreaths at the Isles’ CCM headquarters in Kisiwandui.
This act of remembrance honoured Mzee Karume and all those who fought for Zanzibar’s revolution in January 1964.
Sheikh Ali Khamis, Deputy Kadhi from Mus- lims Council of Tanzania (BAKWATA) Dar es Sa- laam, representing Mufti Sheikh Abubakar Zubeir bin Ally, urged Zanzibaris and all Tanzanians to safe- guard peace and political stability—core values upheld by Karume.
“The only way to truly honour our heroes, led by the late Karume, is to preserve peace. Without peace, we cannot achieve our development goals,” said Sheikh Khamis.
Other religious leaders also offered prayers for peace and continued unity in the country.
The event culminated in the laying of wreaths on Mzee Karume’s grave, led by 2VP Hemed, followed by Dr Mpango, Chief of Defence Forces General Jacob Mkunda and a representative of the Karume family, Mr Ali Karume.
A cross-section of commentators reflected on Mzee Karume’s legacy, particularly his leadership in the 1964 Zanzibar Revolution. CCM’s National Secretary for Ideology, Publicity and Training, Mr Amos Makala, said Tanzanians have every reason to commemorate Karume’s legacy.
“Even 53 years later, leaders continue to draw inspiration from Karume’s patriotism and revolutionary ideals. The core mission of the Revolution was self-governance for Zanzibaris,” said Mr Makala.
He added that the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (SMZ) has remained committed to Karume’s principles—freedom, peace and development. He praised current government efforts in improving health, education, infrastructure and investment.
Mr Makala also noted Karume’s critical role in shaping the ruling party and called on Zanzibaris to uphold patriotism and commitment to national development.
CCM’s Vice Chairperson (Mainland), Mr Stephen Wasira, described Karume as a freedom fighter who stood for justice, patriotism and equality.
He urged today’s leaders to honour those values and serve the people without discrimination.
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He also commended the current government under President Hussein Ali Mwinyi for expanding development opportunities in line with Karume’s revolutionary vision.
Ms Zawadi Amour Nassor, MP for Konde, encouraged leaders to emulate Karume’s wisdom and promote peace and unity. She appealed to the youth to study Zanzibar’s history and not be swayed by divisive political rhetoric.
“Young people must return to our historical roots and consult their elders to understand the legacy they’ve inherited—not political incitement that breeds hate and conflict,” she said.
Mr Abrahman Hamad Hassan, a member of CUF’s Central Committee, praised Karume’s efforts in defending the poor and ensuring food security.
He called on President Mwinyi to lower product taxes as a reflection of Karume’s spirit of compassion and to enhance collaboration with political parties to promote inclusive development.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training in Zanzibar, Mr Khamis Abdallah Said, said Karume championed free education and healthcare—principles that continue to inform current policies.
“His contributions are foundational and unforgettable, rooted in unity, love and equality for all Zanzibaris,” said Mr Khamis.
South Unguja Regional Commissioner Mr Ayoub Mohammed Mahmoud called Karume a liberator whose leadership left a lasting impact, especially in empowering the disadvantaged through long-term development strategies.
Political analyst Mr Sinza Godigodi said Karume was a fearless leader in Zanzibar’s struggle for independence, laying the groundwork for justice and equality.
“Karume must be remembered as a true revolutionary. His visionary ideas laid the foundation for the Zanzibar we know today,” he said.
He warned that a generation unfamiliar with their history risks losing national direction, urging young people to study the past and appreciate the sacrifices made during the Revolution.
“The Union between Zanzibar and Tanganyika would not have happened without Karume’s willingness to sacrifice for the greater good,” he added.
Ms Tunu Kondo, Deputy Secretary-General of the Zanzibar Women’s Union, echoed these sentiments, saying Karume established firm foundations that still guide the country.
