Zanzibar’s Political Landscape Shifts as ACT Wazalendo Chairman Announces Presidential Bid
In a significant development for Zanzibar’s political arena, ACT Wazalendo Chairman Othman Masoud Othman has formally announced his intention to contest for the presidency in the upcoming general elections, pending his party’s endorsement.
Othman, who also serves as the First Vice President of Zanzibar, declared his candidacy during a press conference, emphasizing 2025 as the "year of decisions" for the archipelago.
Critiquing the current administration of President Hussein Ali Mwinyi, Othman pointed to prevalent corruption within public funds, particularly in development projects where tender processes lack transparency and fairness.
In response, a spokesperson for the Zanzibar Revolutionary Government dismissed these allegations, noting that President Mwinyi would address the concerns raised in an upcoming press conference. The spokesperson acknowledged the frustration regarding tender timelines but affirmed that the President would clarify the government’s stance soon.
Othman expressed confidence in his leadership capabilities, stating that despite acknowledging his imperfections, he is prepared to lead Zanzibar towards a prosperous future. “I am here today to officially announce that, InshaAllah, when the time comes for the intra-party presidential candidate nomination, I will request ACT Wazalendo to entrust me with the responsibility of leading the party in Zanzibar’s presidential race,” he asserted.
He urged the people of Zanzibar to consider granting ACT Wazalendo the mandate necessary to guide them toward progress, true freedom, and sustainable development. Othman emphasized the importance of a governance model that prioritizes integrity and accountability, drawing lessons from successful island nations that have avoided corrupt practices.
Further, he highlighted the pressing need to address the outdated policies of the ruling party, which he believes have led to widespread poverty on the island. "We enter this new year with one goal—to rescue Zanzibar from a government rooted in corruption, which has stolen the hopes of our economy and citizens’ rights," he stated.
Additionally, Othman criticized the slow progress of the Government of National Unity (GNU), attributing its challenges to a lack of genuine collaboration with ACT Wazalendo. He highlighted the exclusion of his party from key governance matters that were initially promised during the establishment of the GNU.
As Zanzibar approaches the general election, the political landscape remains dynamic, with Othman’s presidential bid prompting discussions on governance, accountability, and the future direction of the island.
