The ACT-Wazalendo leader pointed to widespread economic hardship, saying only a change of leadership could provide relief
Pemba. ACT-Wazalendo presidential candidate for Zanzibar, Othman Masoud Othman, has rallied party leaders and supporters in Pemba, urging them to remain united as the country heads into the October General Election.
Speaking during a meeting at Samail Hall in Gombani, Chake Chake District, South Pemba Region, Othman – who also serves as the party’s national chairman – unveiled candidates contesting under ACT-Wazalendo for parliamentary, House of Representatives and council seats.
He told the gathering that the party’s biggest strength lay in the overwhelming support of Zanzibaris determined to bring political change.
“Our greatest weapon, which must not be underestimated, is the solidarity and backing of the majority of Zanzibaris, who have already resolved to remove CCM from power,” Othman said.
The ACT-Wazalendo leader pointed to widespread economic hardship, saying only a change of leadership could provide relief.
“The citizens are struggling, and the only way to restore dignity is to unite and remove those responsible for this suffering,” he added.
Othman reiterated that the party’s mission was to lead government and deliver what he termed as “genuine liberation.”
He called on party leaders, members and candidates to work collectively to secure victory.
On the issue of early voting slated for October 28, Othman dismissed the process as “early theft” designed to undermine Zanzibaris. “This is not voting but early theft that carries no good intentions for our people. Laws enabling it are unjust and deserve no respect,” he said.
He insisted that voting was a right requiring respect and discipline, warning against leaving the process in the hands of leaders “without goodwill for the country.”
He reminded ACT-Wazalendo candidates that they carried a heavy responsibility to deliver results that citizens expected.
ACT-Wazalendo Zanzibar vice chairman Ismail Jussa echoed his party leader’s remarks, noting that Pemba would continue to play a pivotal role in Tanzania’s politics.
“Pemba remains a teacher of politics because of its people’s determination to stand by principle,” he said.
Jussa added that while emotions were natural in politics, ACT-Wazalendo members in Pemba had chosen patience in pursuit of the party’s agenda.
“What they desire most is to rescue Zanzibar and see it enjoy full sovereignty,” he said.
Deputy secretary general of ACT-Wazalendo Zanzibar, Omar Ali Shehe, introduced 18 constituency candidates and assured supporters of the party’s readiness.
He predicted a “resounding victory,” particularly for Othman in the presidential race.
Othman arrived in Pemba on a special working tour that also included the formal collection of endorsements for his presidential nomination.
