Momentum builds as ACT-Wazalendo aspirants outline visions in intra-party contest

Dar es Salaam. As the ACT-Wazalendo party gears up for its upcoming general meeting to elect top leaders, candidates for chairmanship have articulated their strategies for the party's future success.

Mr Juma Duni Haji and Mr Othman Masoud, who are competing for the chairmanship, will take part in a debate scheduled for this afternoon, March 4, 2024 in Dar es Salaam, moderated by senior journalist Absalom Kibanda and Mwananchi Communications Limited managing director Bakari Machumu.

The spotlight is also on the contest for the role of Party Leader, with Dorothy Semu and Mbarala Maharagande vying for the position.

The top leaders convened in a closed-door meeting yesterday, March 3, 2024 to discuss various agendas, including scrutinising the credentials of several party members vying for key positions.

Today's executive council meeting will focus on nominating the candidates for the top seats.

Duni's bid for chairmanship

In an exclusive interview, Mr Haji, commonly known as Babu Duni, who currently serves as the outgoing chairman of ACT-Wazalendo, shared his vision for the party's future.

At 73 years old, Babu Duni emphasised the need to complete essential tasks, particularly bringing about fundamental changes, especially in Zanzibar, where the party advocates for the government of national unity (GNU).

He dismissed suggestions of retirement, asserting that he remains committed to the cause of change and building a united country.

"Why should I retire when I am still strong? Why should I retire when I still have a cause to advance change? Why say I should rest when democracy and the party's constitution allow anyone who wants to run?" he questioned.

He highlighted his accomplishments since taking office in 2020, underscoring the party's growth and increased competitiveness in elections.

"It's referred to as the Government of National Unity, a government of reconciliation, but consistently, we find ourselves being the ones conceding. As five years elapse, things persist unchanged,” he said.

"What we truly need is to collectively build it. However, it appears that some individuals harbour the belief that the nation belongs solely to them, and we are merely bystanders," he said during the interview.

Mr Haji refuted claims of collusion with other political entities and emphasised his dedication to the party's principles. He defended his decision to seek re-election, citing his experience and commitment to the party's ideals.

Othman Masoud's vision

Mr Masoud, who currently serves as the first vice president of Zanzibar, shared his perspective on the upcoming leadership contest.

Mr Masoud, who also holds the position of vice chairman of ACT-Wazalendo (Zanzibar), expressed his readiness to implement the party's strategic plan, including promises to Tanzanians if the party secures victory.

He highlighted the growth of the party, emphasising the need for the party to move forward, especially after the leadership of Zitto Kabwe.

He urged a focus on building the party through tangible examples of change.

Regarding the allegations made by Babu Duni of unfair play, Mr Masoud said that he has not witnessed any attempts to smear his opponent's reputation. He acknowledged the presence of factions within the party but maintained that the issues would be addressed internally.

"I am someone capable of fulfilling the brand promise to the Tanzanian people. I have self-evaluated, taking into account the perspectives of my peers as well as my skills and experience in shaping the party's vision and drafting ACT's 2020 manifesto,” said Mr Masoud.

“Drawing from my experience in executing public initiatives, I recognise specific areas where I can contribute significantly while working alongside fellow leaders, assuming I secure the chairmanship," he said.

Mr Masoud also touched on the challenges within the GNU, emphasising the need for a review of agreements and conditions set between ACT-Wazalendo and the ruling party.

He expressed concerns over unresolved issues related to the electoral process and criticised the appointment of the election director at the Zanzibar Electoral Commission, urging continued efforts to address the concerns.