Josephine Christopher is a senior business journalist for The Citizen and Mwananchi newspapers
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The message of peace was linked to tangible progress in Zanzibar, with a local representative, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, citing advancements in youth employment, health, and education
Zanzibar. Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) presidential candidate and incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan has urged Tanzanians to prioritise peace and stability as the nation approaches the October 2025 General Election.
She emphasised that violence undermines both democracy and development. During a large campaign rally in Makunduchi on Monday, President Hassan reminded citizens that elections are a democratic exercise rather than a battleground, encouraging voters to reject provocation.
“I earnestly request that we maintain peace and stability; elections are not war but an act of democracy. Resorting to violence does not provide solutions. Peace and stability are especially vital during election periods,” she declared, receiving applause from the crowd.
The President reassured voters that state institutions are fully prepared to protect the electoral process. “Our security agencies are equipped to safeguard the nation’s peace. If you want to avoid trouble, cast your vote, go home, and remain calm,” she underscored.
In addition to promoting security, President Hassan announced plans for the establishment of a Union Memory and Archive Centre in Zanzibar. This centre aims to preserve Tanzania’s political and historical heritage for future generations.
Speaking in her hometown of Makunduchi, she articulated that the centre would serve as a national repository, documenting the historical 1964 Union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar and its development over the years.
“We plan to create a centre for memory and archives of the Union, ensuring that future generations and all citizens are aware of our history: where we came from, where we are, and where we are headed,” she explained.
This initiative seeks to institutionalise the history of the Union, which forms the foundation of Tanzania’s identity, and ensure that both Zanzibaris and mainland Tanzanians have access to comprehensive historical records.
At the same rally, CCM’s Zanzibar presidential candidate, Dr Hussein Hassan Mwinyi, reinforced the call for calm, stressing that peace, unity, and reconciliation are non-negotiable.
“Peace, unity, cohesion, and reconciliation must guide our actions. Anyone who speaks otherwise does not wish us well,” Dr Mwinyi asserted.
He highlighted the importance of maintaining stability for Zanzibaris to fully capitalise on opportunities in fisheries, tourism, and maritime trade, while also addressing past political tensions. “Stability is not just a campaign slogan; it is essential for our social fabric,” he emphasised.
CCM Secretary General Dr. Asha Rose Migiro echoed these sentiments, arguing that peace has always been integral to the party’s governance.
She highlighted President Hassan’s “4R” strategy—Reconciliation, Resilience, Reform, and Rebuilding—as proof of CCM’s commitment to securing Tanzania’s future.
“Peace and stability are the foundations of genuine development. Without them, no nation can thrive. This has been CCM’s core agenda throughout this election cycle,” Dr Migiro stated.
She further credited President Hassan with enhancing Tanzania’s international standing, remarking, “You have placed our country on the global diplomatic map, and I witnessed this first-hand while serving as ambassador in the UK.”
Local CCM leaders linked the message of peace to the tangible progress achieved in Zanzibar. Makunduchi representative Wanu Hafidh Ameir cited recent advancements in the blue economy, youth employment, health, and education.
“We take pride in the unity and peace found within our country. Here in Zanzibar, we have witnessed remarkable progress in the blue economy, new opportunities for our youth, and improvements in social services,” she concluded.
