Fragile alliance: Why ACT-Wazalendo threatens to leave the GNU
Dar es Salaam. The air crackles with tension in Zanzibar's political landscape, as the ACT-Wazalendo repeatedly threatens to walk out of the Government of National Unity (GNU). But what is fueling this simmering dispute?
The party's frustrations stem from a perceived lack of progress on key issues such as democratic reforms and alleged disrespect from the ruling CCM party.
Broken Promises
In an interview with The Citizen, ACT-Wazalendo chairman Juma Duni Haji outlined the party's grievances.
He pointed to the unfulfilled promises made during a 2020 meeting with President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi, where ACT-Wazalendo proposed reforms to the Zanzibar Electoral Commission (ZEC) and other institutions to ensure fairer elections in 2025. These proposals, Haji claims, remain unimplemented.
"We proposed repealing the Zanzibar Election Act and making improvements," Haji said, highlighting the two-day voting period as impractical for Zanzibar's population.
He further criticised the continued presence of ZEC Director-General Thabit Idarous Faina, who faces accusations of rigging the 2020 elections.
ACT-Wazalendo also feels slighted by the lack of compensation and medical care for its members arrested during the 2020 elections, despite President Mwinyi's release order.
Additionally, Deputy Chairman Duni cited instances of disrespect from CCM officials, including a minister's alleged refusal to acknowledge First Vice President Othman Masoud Othman.
Othman's ultimatum and CCM's rebuttal
These grievances culminated in Othman's recent declaration at a rally: "We entered GNU with conditions and goals, and if those conditions are not met, we will leave without being told by anyone."
He emphasized their right to criticise the government even as GNU members, stating, "Our members told us to stay in GNU with conditions... We entered GNU with our tools, if we want to leave, we will leave with our tools."
CCM, however, dismisses these claims as baseless. Party spokesperson Khamis Mbeto asserts that Zanzibar operates under a Constitution and laws, questioning the legitimacy of ACT-Wazalendo's demands.
He accused them of hypocrisy, pointing to their criticisms of the government while enjoying the benefits of GNU participation.
Mbeto defended the ZEC, stating its balanced representation from both parties and Faina's role as an executive, not a decision-maker.
He also emphasized Dr. Mwinyi's adherence to the Constitution, calling ACT-Wazalendo's complaints "favors" rather than legitimate concerns.
Analysts weigh in
The political landscape adds further complexity to this standoff. Analyst Kiama Mwaimu views ACT-Wazalendo's threats as a strategic move to garner support and appear sacrificial before the 2025 elections.
He believes leaving GNU could be a risky gamble, potentially weakening their position.
Ali Makame, another analyst, suggests ACT-Wazalendo lacks compelling arguments for voters and resorts to criticism to stay relevant. He urges them to adopt a more constructive approach to politics.
Dr. Richard Mbunda sees ACT-Wazalendo's actions as a push for power-sharing within GNU, as ministerial positions offered seem insufficient. He believes the party's intention is not to leave but to strengthen their position within the government.
Finally, Enzi Talib Abood predicts a high possibility of ACT-Wazalendo leaving GNU closer to the elections to create a dramatic impact on voters.
He points to their frequent pronouncements as evidence of their preparedness.
Uncertainty
The future of the GNU hangs in the balance as ACT-Wazalendo's threats continue. The party's frustration with unfulfilled promises, alleged disrespect, and limited power within the government fuels their desire to leave.
However, analysts warn of the potential risks of such a move, urging ACT-Wazalendo to consider alternative strategies for achieving their goals.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to remain or depart will have significant consequences for Zanzibar's political stability and the upcoming 2025 elections.
