Pemba. Zanzibaris will soon be informed of key agreements reached in ongoing political negotiations between CCM and ACT Wazalendo, the party’s national chairman, Mr Othman Masoud Othman, has said.
Mr Othman, a former First Vice President of Zanzibar, made the remarks at the party’s offices in Ngazi village, Chambani constituency, while briefing leaders on progress in talks aimed at resolving the political dispute that followed the October 2025 General Election.
He said the two sides have held intensive dialogue since November last year, making significant progress on several issues.
Central among them are reforms to the Zanzibar Electoral Commission and the broader electoral system, which he described as the root of recurring political tensions since the introduction of multiparty politics in 1995.
Discussions are also focusing on the need for a new Zanzibar Constitution that reflects current and future public expectations.
The existing constitution, he said, grants extensive presidential powers, a factor widely seen as contributing to political disputes.
Mr Othman noted that weaknesses in the constitutional and electoral frameworks have eroded public confidence in access to justice, making reforms in these areas a priority.
He said once agreements are finalised, full details will be made public, followed by enactment of laws, a formal implementation timetable and the establishment of a special oversight body.
These measures, he said, are intended to support reconciliation, strengthen national unity and advance development in Zanzibar.
On the proposed Government of National Unity, Mr Othman said ACT Wazalendo’s priority is securing a sustainable political settlement rather than deciding whether to join such an arrangement.
He confirmed the party has not yet submitted a nominee for First Vice President, as talks continue.
He added that six rounds of negotiations have been held under the facilitation of former Zanzibar presidents Dr Ali Mohammed Shein and Dr Amani Abeid Karume, describing the process as complex but constructive.
Mr Othman thanked Zanzibaris for their patience and political maturity, urging continued unity as efforts to resolve the crisis advance.
He also criticised recent court rulings in election-related cases, saying they had undermined public confidence in the judiciary, but confirmed the party has appealed to seek redress through legal channels.
ACT Wazalendo filed 54 cases—25 involving constituency representatives, 28 parliamentary cases and one councillor case. The Zanzibar High Court ruled it lacked jurisdiction over the parliamentary cases and directed they be filed in mainland Tanzania.
The party has appealed the decision at the Court of Appeal of Tanzania.
Deputy Chairman Ismail Jussa Ladhu said the party remains strong due to committed leadership and membership, while Deputy Secretary General for Zanzibar Omar Ali Shehe said the party remains stable despite recent challenges.
Mr Othman is currently touring Pemba to brief party leaders on the negotiations and is expected to meet leaders in North Pemba next.
