Zanzibar MPs vow assertive stance in Union Parliament
Zanzibar legislator Simai Mohammed Said takes oath today in Parliament in Dodoma. PHOTO | COURTESY
By Katare Mbashiru
Dodoma. Newly sworn-in Members of Parliament from Zanzibar have pledged to take an active role in the Union Parliament, prioritising reforms in ports and transport systems and the establishment of a joint financial fund.
The legislators made the commitment shortly after taking the oath of allegiance on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, saying the issues have remained unresolved for years.
The six MPs include members of the Zanzibar House of Representatives—Fatuma Ramadhan Mohamed, Mariam Said Hamis, Shaame Ali Ali and Simai Mohamed Said of Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), as well as Saidi Ali Mbarouk of ACT Wazalendo. They were joined by Dr Lazaro Bunungu, MP for Peramiho (CCM).
Under the Constitution, five members from the Zanzibar House of Representatives are appointed to the Union Parliament to strengthen representation between the two sides of the Union.
Speaking after the swearing-in, Mr Saidi Ali Mbarouk said the establishment of a joint financial fund remains a key priority, describing it as a long-standing issue that requires resolution.
He said the matter has been pending for years and should now be addressed through a framework capable of resolving broader structural challenges within the Union.
Mr Simai Mohamed Said said his focus will include promoting unity and equal access to public services.
He cited concerns over access to ports and public transport, saying such services should serve all Tanzanians without discrimination.
He dismissed claims that services in Zanzibar are restricted to residents, stating that all citizens have equal rights within the United Republic.
Mr Simai also said he will use parliamentary platforms and engagements with the Prime Minister to ensure Zanzibar’s concerns are addressed.
He added that his role includes presenting issues affecting Zanzibaris in Parliament and following them through to implementation.
