The Zanzibar vice president stressed that the push for change stems from the lived experiences of ordinary people, an economy that has left many behind, a justice system in need of reform, weak accountability, and overstretched social services.
Dar es Salaam. ACT Wazalendo’s presidential candidate for Zanzibar, Othman Masoud Othman, has said the October polls present a rare opportunity for Zanzibaris to demand change, despite concerns over the fairness of the electoral process.
Speaking during a breakfast meeting with editors in Dar es Salaam on Saturday, August 23, 2025, Mr Othman said the political mood in the Isles was one of impatience, with citizens eager for reforms in governance, economic management, and public services.
“This year’s election is what we are calling the election of decisions. And for Zanzibar, it is the year to rescue Zanzibar. People are yawning for change, and this is their opportunity to take part in shaping it,” he said.
He admitted that systemic challenges, ranging from mistrust in electoral institutions to limited transparency, continue to cast a shadow over Tanzania’s democratic processes.
But he insisted that boycotting elections would only worsen the situation.
“Under our slogan, Vote, Protect the Vote, Impunity is Unacceptable, we have chosen the lesser evil. Our participation is not about legitimising misconduct; it is about confronting it head-on. It is about showing that impunity cannot be the permanent rule of our politics,” he said.
Mr Othman also dismissed claims by former CCM publicity secretary Humphrey Polepole that ACT Wazalendo was a ruling party project.
ACT Wazalendo’s presidential candidate for Zanzibar, Othman Masoud Othman
“ACT cannot be a project of another party. It is this same party that inflicted unbearable pain on us. How could we be part of the same agenda?” he asked.
Call for reforms
The Zanzibar vice president stressed that the push for change stems from the lived experiences of ordinary people, an economy that has left many behind, a justice system in need of reform, weak accountability, and overstretched social services.
He cited the 1984 Zanzibar Constitution, the Union structure, land management, governance, and livelihoods as areas where sweeping reforms are urgently needed.
“Zanzibar needs major reforms to achieve sustainable development, social welfare, and lasting peace and stability,” he noted.
The breakfast meeting, held at the Serena Hotel, was billed as an informal exchange between ACT Wazalendo leaders and media professionals.
Mr Othman underlined the role of journalists as a vital bridge between political leaders and citizens.
“Citizens see and hear us through you. Even among ourselves as politicians, we see and hear one another through journalists. Without you, everything stalls,” he told editors.
Petition over Mpina
On internal matters, Mr Othman confirmed that ACT Wazalendo had received a letter from the Registrar of Political Parties regarding a petition challenging the legitimacy of Mr Luhaga Mpina’s candidacy.
“The registrar wrote to us and we responded. Interestingly, the same party member who filed the petition was among the delegates who endorsed Mr Mpina’s candidacy at the national convention,” he said.
Issues-driven campaign
Looking ahead, Mr Othman said ACT Wazalendo’s Union and Zanzibar manifestos would anchor its campaigns, reflecting months of research and engagement.
“Our party calls itself the Issues Party because we deal with what truly matters. We are not just here to criticise but to propose solutions,” he stressed.
He outlined key reform areas, including the economy, justice system, governance, land policy, technology, and cultural heritage, arguing that these priorities resonate with a growing public sense that Zanzibar is at a crossroads.
“The dream of freedom, equality, and progress is alive in every Zanzibari. This election is the chance to turn that dream into reality,” he said.
While acknowledging the difficult political environment, Mr Othman insisted that participation was the only way forward.
“It is only through voting, protecting our vote, and rejecting impunity that we can begin to rescue Zanzibar,” he stressed.
