What accord entails

ZANZIBAR: THE Joint Declaration and Action Agenda signed by Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) and ACT Wazalendo sets out an ambitious programme of political, constitutional and governance reforms aimed at strengthening reconciliation, democracy and lasting peace in Zanzibar.

Signed yesterday at the State House in Zanzibar, the declaration commits the two parties to sustained dialogue, institutional reforms and mechanisms for implementing agreed changes.

According to the declaration, the accord marks the beginning of the second phase of a reconciliation process aimed at resolving longstanding political differences through sustained dialogue, mutual trust and consensus-building.

Presenting the declaration, Zanzibar Chief Secretary and Secretary to the Reconciliation Committee, Ms Mansura Mossi Kassim, said the agreement reflects the two parties’ commitment to safeguarding peace, unity and political stability while placing the interests of Zanzibar and its people above partisan considerations.

She said the accord follows months of consultations after the 2025 General Election, during which concerns over the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) prompted dialogue between CCM and ACT Wazalendo.

According to the declaration, nine dialogue sessions were held between November 9, 2025, and April 16, 2026, under the facilitation of former Zanzibar Presidents Dr Amani Abeid Karume and Dr Ali Mohamed Shein. The meetings narrowed differences between the two parties and produced a framework for continued negotiations.

The declaration states that the first phase of the reconciliation process has been successfully concluded, paving the way for a second phase that will focus on implementing agreed reforms through structured dialogue and cooperation.

Under the accord, CCM and ACT Wazalendo have committed themselves to strengthening national unity, reconciliation and sustainable peace while promoting political stability and inclusive development.

The agreement also commits both parties to strengthening democratic governance by supporting institutions that uphold democracy, accountability, good governance and the rule of law.

It further recognises the importance of free and fair elections, an independent justice system and effective public institutions as essential pillars for Zanzibar’s democratic development.

To oversee implementation, the parties agreed to establish a Joint Dialogue Committee, in line with an agreed timetable, to continue discussions on outstanding issues, coordinate implementation and monitor progress.

The declaration further provides for the establishment of a special implementation mechanism, to be created under the law, to supervise execution of resolutions reached during the dialogue process and ensure agreed reforms are carried out effectively.

The accord also states that future dialogue will be guided by the principles of truth, sincerity, integrity, transparency and national interest, with both parties pledging to place the interests of Zanzibar and the United Republic of Tanzania above political, institutional or personal interests.

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Recognising that reconciliation requires broad participation, CCM and ACT Wazalendo agreed that the process will remain inclusive by involving political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders whenever necessary.

Implementation of the agreed agenda is expected to begin immediately, with the Joint Dialogue Committee tasked with developing procedures and timelines for executing the reforms. Meanwhile, political leaders welcomed the accord, expressing optimism that it will strengthen the Government of National Unity, deepen democratic reforms and reinforce lasting peace and stability.

CCM Secretary for Ideology, Publicity and Training in Zanzibar, Mr Khamis Mbeto Khasim, said the agreement was the outcome of an eightmonth dialogue process initiated after the 2025 General Election.

ACT Wazalendo National Secretary for Publicity and Communications, Mr Salim Bimani, said the accord reflects the aspirations of many Zanzibaris for democratic reforms, respect for human rights and free and fair elections.