Othman pledges people-driven leadership for Z’bar

ZANZIBAR: ACT-Wazalendo presidential candidate, Mr Othman Masoud Othman, has pledged to form an inclusive government that prioritises the welfare of ordinary Zanzibaris over the interests of a few wealthy investors.

Speaking at a major campaign rally in Donge Mwanakombo, North Unguja Region, Mr Othman said his administration would implement practical and people-centred policies to ensure that local residents benefit directly from the country’s economic growth.

He cited the Mahonda Sugar Factory as an example, promising that his government would create a fair environment for nearby communities to access jobs and business opportunities.

Mr Othman emphasised that ACT-Wazalendo’s development agenda focuses on citizen participation in production and entrepreneurship as a sustainable way to combat poverty.

He announced plans to launch a “Community Participation in Industry” initiative to provide young people in Mahonda and surrounding areas with industrial training, work experience and support to start small-scale enterprises connected to sugar products.

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“Zanzibar’s economic revolution cannot succeed without empowering its own people,” he said.

“My government will ensure that every young person in Donge, Mahonda and Kinyasini feels that the government exists for them. Poverty will not be fought with words, but through actions that change lives.” ACT-Wazalendo Central Committee member, Mr Mansoor Yussuf Himid, told the gathering that the party was heading into the October 29 General Election with strong confidence of achieving what he described as “the greatest victory in Zanzibar’s political history.”

“Even if the election were held in ten days, ACT-Wazalendo is ready,” said Mr Mansoor.

“We are a party of peace, fairness and development for all. Our good intentions for Zanzibar are the reason people are embracing us.” Speaking at a separate meeting at Mapinduzi Square, Mr Mansoor reaffirmed the party’s demand for a free, fair and transparent election.

Meanwhile, ACT-Wazalendo campaign manager, Mr Ismail Jussa Ladhu, urged the Zanzibar Electoral Commission (ZEC) to ensure that citizens exercise their right to vote freely and peacefully.

He said the party believes in politics grounded in respect, unity and peace and that its policies reflect the hopes of Zanzibaris seeking meaningful change.

“People want peace, but they also want change,” Mr Jussa said. “ACT-Wazalendo is ready to build a just, equal and inclusive economy that benefits everyone — not just a few.” As the rally reached its peak, Mr Othman received a rousing welcome from thousands of supporters.

He reiterated that although Zanzibar is rich in resources, most citizens continue to live in poverty because development benefits are concentrated among a small elite.

“If given the mandate to lead, I will ensure that every Zanzibari enjoys a better life,” he vowed, citing the untapped potential in agriculture, fisheries, tourism and natural gas as key drivers of transformation.

Mr Othman also underscored that advocating for Zanzibar’s rights is not an act of defiance, but a continuation of the nation’s founding vision for dignity, freedom and equality.

“Demanding Zanzibar’s rights is not rebellion,” he said. “It is fulfilling the vision of our Constitution, which recognises Zanzibar as a nation whose people deserve dignity, freedom and a better life.