ACT Wazalendo appeals to Samia to reform Police Force

Unguja. The Opposition party ACT Wazalendo has appealed to President Samia Suluhu Hassan to accelerate the implementation of the President’s Commission on the Criminal Justice System's recommendations.

The call comes in the wake of Zanzibar’s Police Commissioner, CP Hamad Khamis Hamad’s public criticism of inflammatory rhetoric from political rallies.

CP Hamad had condemned what he described as dangerous statements threatening the nation’s peace and stability, portraying a picture of political discourse plagued by incitement and divisive speech.

In response, ACT Wazalendo is calling for significant reforms within the police force to restore integrity and justice.

The party argues that systemic failures within the Zanzibar Police, particularly at the regional levels, have compromised its effectiveness.

ACT Wazalendo claims that Regional and District Commissioners have allegedly issued orders that undermine human rights and violate constitutional laws, leading to widespread corruption and a failure to uphold the rule of law.

“The President’s Commission on the Criminal Justice System was tasked with addressing these critical issues,” said Zanzibar’s First Vice President and National Chairman of ACT Wazalendo, Othman Masoud Othman.

“We are requesting President Samia Suluhu Hassan to intensify efforts and expedite the implementation of the report to ensure meaningful reforms.

The public’s trust in the police force hinges on these changes.” ACT Wazalendo insists that the police have an opportunity to restore their credibility by maintaining impartiality and avoiding political bias.

The party is concerned that recent statements from the police have only fuelled panic and created unfounded threats, rather than promoting peace and stability.

“Our role is to hold the Government accountable and highlight public concerns,” Othman added.

“We will continue to uphold our principles and scrutinize government actions, regardless of which party is in power.

It is the responsibility of CCM and the Government to address these issues, not the police.”

The party also highlighted ongoing issues with unchecked criminal and violent incidents, urging the police to take action.

They stress that comprehensive measures are needed to prevent future occurrences and ensure that Zanzibar can conduct politics and elections without fear of violence.

ACT Wazalendo’s call extends beyond immediate concerns to a broader appeal for justice in all areas of governance.

They insist that justice is essential for preventing chaos and ensuring a stable future for Zanzibar.

At a press conference at the Vuga office, Othman underscored the need for implementing agreements made in 2020 between former ACT Wazalendo National Chairman Maalim Seif Sharif Hamad and President Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, which aimed to set Zanzibar on a path to positive political reform.

“Our commitment to justice is unwavering,” Mr Othman said, adding, “We will continue to advocate a better future for Zanzibar, encouraging citizens to stand up for their rights and seek accountability.

We hope others will also speak out against violations and demand justice.”

He also detailed numerous grievances against the police, citing a series of grave incidents from October and November 2020.

He accused the police of failing to investigate or act on severe acts of violence and lawlessness, including the murder of 21 people and severe assaults on ACT Wazalendo members.

Those incidents, he argued, illustrated a disturbing pattern of police negligence and complicity.

“Our party has endured violence and injustice, yet the police have been silent on these issues while focusing on stifling our political voice,” he said.

This is not just a matter of selective enforcement; it is a deep-seated problem that undermines the integrity of our entire justice system,” Othman said.