Why ACT-Wazalendo has held off entering Zanzibar’s government

Unguja. The National Chairman of ACT-Wazalendo, Mr Othman Masoud Othman, has emphasized that building a strong nation must be rooted in freedom, peace, and access to justice for all citizens, rather than coercion or force.

Speaking on Saturday, August 22, 2026, during a special gathering to congratulate leaders of the Zanzibar Imams Association (Jumaza) in Pemba, Mr Othman stressed that sustainable national development relies on upholding fundamental rights.

"We cannot build a strong nation without respecting freedom, peace, and access to justice," said Mr Othman.

Elaborating on his party's stance, Mr Othman, who served as the party’s Zanzibar presidential candidate, explained that ACT-Wazalendo made a deliberate choice to safeguard peace and public tranquility rather than foster division.

He noted that the decision was aimed at protecting citizens' lives, dignity, and property, adding that political leadership should serve the public rather than create conflict.

Jumaza’s role in peacebuilding

Mr Othman commended Jumaza leaders for their continuous counsel and prayers, describing them as true guardians of faith who have played a vital role in guiding society towards political reconciliation.

However, he urged religious leaders to remain steadfast in praying for the ongoing dialogue process, noting that resistance to peacebuilding efforts persists among certain political actors.

Addressing public inquiries regarding why ACT-Wazalendo has not immediately joined the government, Mr Othman explained that key legal and operational steps must be finalized first.

He revealed that following a joint agreement, a joint committee will be established to oversee its execution, ensuring leaders enter government driven by national interest rather than personal gain.

Call for reconciliation

Jumaza executive secretary, Sheikh Ali Abdallah Amour, praised ACT-Wazalendo for prioritizing peace and justice.

Similarly, ACT-Wazalendo deputy secretary-general (Zanzibar), Mr Omar Ali Shehe, noted that the gathering reflected the unity and solidarity of Zanzibaris striving for a better future.

The event was attended by various religious and political figures, including Jumaza deputy chief Amiri, Sheikh Ghazal Abdallah Ali, along with ACT-Wazalendo regional leaders from Pemba Island.

The engagement follows the Joint Declaration of Political Reconciliation signed between the ruling CCM and ACT-Wazalendo on July 9, 2026, at the State House grounds in Zanzibar.

Signed in the presence of President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Zanzibar President, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi alongside Mr Othman, the accord aims to foster political tolerance, permanent reconciliation, and key institutional reforms.

The agreement framework prioritises constitutional, electoral, and judicial reforms, public service accountability, and the establishment of a statutory body to monitor implementation.