Scores welcome GNU accord

ZANZIBAR: CITIZENS and political leaders in Zanzibar have expressed optimism following the joint reconciliation statement between Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) and ACT Wazalendo, describing it as a major step towards strengthening unity, preserving peace and accelerating development.

They said the agreement provides renewed hope for ending political divisions that have affected the islands in the past and creates an opportunity for leaders to focus on the interests of citizens.

A resident of Mombasa in Ungula, Mr Abubakar Rashid, said prolonged political differences had created fear and uncertainty among Zanzibaris, but the latest development restored confidence that leaders were prioritising national interests.

He said the decision by the two parties to reach an agreement reflected political maturity and commitment to bringing people together despite ideological differences.

“In the past, we reached a point where even Zanzibaris became divided. President Hussein Mwinyi handled the situation with great commitment and I believe where we are now is a continuation of building unity. We must stand together and support our leaders who made this agreement possible,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mr Zahor Khamis Zahor, a resident of Michenzani, said Zanzibaris have the ability to resolve their challenges through dialogue without relying on external intervention.

He said citizens need peace, development and stability rather than political conflicts that slow progress.

“We trust Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi and Othman Masoud Othman. Their cooperation will open a new chapter of development and strengthen social cohesion,” he said.

Ms Maryam Sultan Mohammed from Mpendae called on political leaders to continue cooperating with the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, CCM and ACT Wazalendo to ensure the reconciliation process benefits citizens.

She said Zanzibaris are more interested in sustainable development than political disagreements, adding that cooperation among leaders is essential for maintaining peace, unity and prosperity.

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She commended President Mwinyi for promoting development initiatives and urged citizens to support efforts aimed at improving people’s welfare.

“If one or two parties take actions that could reverse development efforts, it will not benefit citizens, whose greatest expectation is to see Zanzibar progress,” she said.

She also praised President Samia Suluhu Hassan for supporting reconciliation efforts, encouraging citizens to continue working with leaders to ensure lasting peace and unity.

CCM Zanzibar Secretary for Information, Ideology, Publicity and Training Khamis Mbeto Khamis said citizens should remain optimistic following progress made after discussions that began after the October 2025 General Election.

He attributed the achievement to the wisdom of political leaders, including CCM Chairperson Dr Samia, President Mwinyi and other stakeholders who placed national interests above political differences.

Mr Mbeto said the agreement strengthens the commitment to advancing the Government of National Unity in accordance with the 1984 Zanzibar Constitution.

He added that while Zanzibar has made progress in economic and social development, strengthening social cohesion remains necessary to ensure citizens work together in building the nation.

ACT Wazalendo Zanzibar Secretary for Ideology, Publicity and Training Salum Dimani said the agreement was important in strengthening peace and preventing a return to political tensions experienced during previous elections.

He said Zanzibar had already made significant democratic progress through constitutional reforms and the establishment of the Government of National Unity, adding that the latest move would further promote democracy, equality and reconciliation.

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“What we want now is to see the implementation of these agreements in practice. Citizens need development, democracy and mutual respect, not political conflict,” he said.

Mr Dimani said ACT Wazalendo believes the reconciliation will create opportunities for building a united, peaceful and prosperous Zanzibar for the benefits of current and future generations.

CUF Secretary General Hamad Masoud Hamad welcomed the reconciliation initiative, saying it would continue strengthening peace, solidarity and mutual respect among Zanzibaris.

He described the move as the fifth reconciliation effort since the introduction of multiparty politics and expressed confidence that Zanzibar’s aspirations would be achieved if the Constitution and laws were respected.