Mr Masoud described the 2025 General Election as “a defining moment for the future of Zanzibar,” urging citizens to exercise their democratic right peacefully and responsibly
Unguja. ACT Wazalendo presidential candidate Othman Masoud Othman has called on the Zanzibar Electoral Commission (ZEC) and state authorities to ensure a free, fair, and transparent election as the Isles head to the polls.
Speaking during a meeting with editors and journalists at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Zanzibar on Monday, Mr Masoud described the 2025 General Election as “a defining moment for the future of Zanzibar,” urging citizens to exercise their democratic right peacefully and responsibly.
“We are entering one of the most important periods in our country’s history—the time to make a decision to save Zanzibar,” he said. “Our appeal is simple: turn out in large numbers, vote early, and defend your right.”
Mr Masoud, who also serves as the national chairperson of ACT Wazalendo, said his six-week campaign across Unguja and Pemba had provided an opportunity to engage directly with citizens and understand their daily challenges.
“This campaign was not merely an opportunity to present our policies; it became a moment of learning, as we gained new insights directly from the people,” he said.
According to him, citizens raised concerns over land disputes, healthcare quality, the education system, youth unemployment, and access to basic services such as identification documents and markets for local producers.
“These voices are the true cries of Zanzibaris—expressing deep frustration with governance, justice, and public services,” he noted. “Our people see ACT Wazalendo as their hope for change through the vision and policies we have shared.”
Mr Masoud outlined his party’s priorities under the slogan “Zanzibar Mpya, Zanzibar Moja” (A New, United Zanzibar), focusing on strengthening Zanzibar’s authority within the Union, job creation, and enhancing accountability in governance.
Among the key pledges outlined in ACT Wazalendo’s manifesto is a commitment to expand employment opportunities for Zanzibaris, including the introduction of a proposed minimum wage of Sh1 million.
The party also promises to make higher education accessible to all by providing free studies through grants rather than loans. To improve household welfare, ACT plans to eliminate taxes and fees on basic food items as a way of strengthening food security.
In addition, the manifesto proposes the creation of a Zakat Fund dedicated to supporting vulnerable and low-income groups.
The party further pledges to spearhead the drafting of a new Zanzibar Constitution aimed at reinforcing citizens’ sovereignty and deepening democratic governance.
“We want to build a Zanzibar where citizens are active participants in investment and development—not bystanders,” he said. “We have heard the people’s cries, and we are bringing the solutions.”
On the electoral process, Mr Masoud appealed to the electoral body and state institutions to safeguard the integrity of the vote.
“We call upon the Zanzibar Electoral Commission to conduct the election fairly, transparently, and with integrity,” he said. “We do not seek favoritism, only lawful accountability.”
He added that ACT Wazalendo would respect the results of the election provided they reflect the genuine will of the people.
“We are confident of victory, but if, by the people’s will, the results are otherwise, we will respect their decision—so long as it represents the true voice of the people,” he said.
The ACT Wazalendo leader urged Zanzibaris to maintain peace and unity throughout the election period.
“May God bless our Zanzibar and protect our dignity,” he said. “Let us fulfill our duty and build a just and prosperous nation together.”
