Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi and First Vice President Othman Masoud Othman have committed to utilizing the Government of National Unity (GNU) to translate the reconciliation between CCM and ACT-Wazalendo into tangible outcomes for the island. The two leaders made these pledges after Othman's swearing-in ceremony at State House. They emphasized that the reconciliation agreement signed on July 9, 2026, marked the beginning of a new phase of cooperation focused on national interests and development.
President Mwinyi highlighted the significance of the reconciliation agreement, stating that it was achieved by Zanzibaris themselves without external influence. He noted that the agreement was not the end of the reconciliation process but rather the starting point for building a more politically cooperative Zanzibar. Mwinyi identified key areas that require cooperation, including tourism, the blue economy, investment, infrastructure, and improved public services.
The President also emphasized the need for greater attention to healthcare, education, water, and energy services. He pledged to create more opportunities for young people and empower women. Mwinyi expressed gratitude to political parties, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and ambassadors for their support in the reconciliation process. He urged Zanzibaris to protect the peace and unity created through this process.
First Vice President Othman echoed the President's sentiments, describing the GNU as a vehicle for reconciliation and solidarity. He cited the late Zanzibar leader Seif Sharif Hamad's political philosophy as an inspiration. Othman emphasized the need for Zanzibar to adapt to changing global economic conditions and strengthen its ability to compete for investment and trade.
Othman warned against relying on outdated political and economic approaches, advocating for comprehensive reforms instead of piecemeal solutions. He urged political parties to select leaders who prioritize national interests over partisan considerations. Othman also pledged to serve all Zanzibaris and rejected the "Togwa" philosophy of division.
Political stakeholders have welcomed Othman's swearing-in, viewing it as a crucial step in Zanzibar's emerging political landscape. ACT-Wazalendo Elders Wing national secretary Janet Medad Fusi noted that the development has created a new political environment requiring collective support. CCM Ideology, Publicity, and Training Secretary Khamis Mbeto Khamis stated that the GNU is a constitutional requirement under Articles 9 and 39 of the 1984 Zanzibar Constitution.
A joint committee has been formed to deliberate on shared priorities and submit recommendations on their implementation within three months. The committee's efforts aim to solidify the GNU's impact and ensure the reconciliation agreement's success. President Mwinyi also expressed condolences to the Karume family following the death of Mama Fatma Karume, Zanzibar's First Lady.
Key points
- Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi and First Vice President Othman Masoud Othman have pledged to implement the reconciliation agreement between CCM and ACT-Wazalendo.
- The Government of National Unity (GNU) will focus on key areas such as tourism, the blue economy, investment, infrastructure, and improved public services.
- A joint committee has been formed to deliberate on shared priorities and submit recommendations on their implementation within three months.
