The initiative, unveiled by ZEC Chairperson Justice George Joseph Kazi, aims to promote a fair, secure, and inclusive electoral environment for all candidates.
Unguja. The Zanzibar Electoral Commission (ZEC) has officially nominated 11 presidential candidates for the upcoming Zanzibar general election, with each receiving a brand-new Land Cruiser VXR vehicle, a driver, and a bodyguard to support their campaign efforts.
The initiative, unveiled by ZEC Chairperson Justice George Joseph Kazi, aims to promote a fair, secure, and inclusive electoral environment for all candidates.
The Commission will also cover the vehicles’ fuel and maintenance costs throughout the campaign period.
“This initiative is designed to ensure a level playing field for all candidates. By providing these vehicles and necessary support services, we aim to facilitate peaceful, safe, and effective campaigns,” said Justice Kazi.
Screening narrows field to 11
A total of 17 political parties initially collected nomination forms. Of these, 12 returned the forms to the Commission. However, the candidate from the Civic United Front (CUF), Hamad Masoud, was disqualified after failing to submit required documents from one region, leaving 11 contenders.
The confirmed political parties are: Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), ACT Wazalendo, Makini, ADA Tadea, NCCR Mageuzi, NRA, ADC, NLD, AAFP, UPDP, and TLP.
Justice Kazi also addressed the recently concluded sponsor verification process, particularly for the ACT Wazalendo candidate, whose application had earlier drawn scrutiny. Following a comprehensive review, the candidate met all legal requirements, including securing 200 valid sponsors from each region.
Nonetheless, the exercise underscored the importance of thorough verification. In North Unguja, 11 out of 250 listed sponsors were disqualified due to discrepancies between membership card numbers and names. Similarly, in South Unguja, six out of 207 listed sponsors were found to have incorrect details.
“These findings reaffirm the importance of rigorous sponsor verification to maintain the integrity of the nomination process,” Justice Kazi said.
Candidates welcome support
Several candidates expressed appreciation for the Commission’s efforts, noting that transportation challenges have previously hindered equitable participation in the electoral process.
ADA Tadea presidential candidate Juma Ali Khatib remarked: “In past campaigns, some candidates had to rely on bicycles or motorcycles. This support marks a significant improvement in creating a fair playing field.”
NCCR Mageuzi candidate Laila Rajab Khamis highlighted the benefits for female candidates:
“This initiative particularly empowers women, many of whom face financial limitations during campaigns. We are committed to conducting peaceful, respectful campaigns.”
Justice Kazi concluded by urging all candidates to prioritize issue-based campaigning and to uphold peace and stability throughout the electoral season.
“The Commission calls on all candidates to engage in civil discourse, present their manifestos clearly, and avoid actions that could jeopardize national unity,” he said.
