Makini’s Ameir promises Sh500,000 monthly stipend for every Zanzibari

The party, previously known as the Democracy Makini Party, underwent a rebranding during its National General Meeting on August 25, 2024, at Nefaland Hotel in Manzese, Dar es Salaam.

Delegates expressed that the name change aims to revitalize the party and sharpen its focus in preparation for the 2025 General Election.

Mr Ameir, who is also the party’s deputy secretary general, has been nominated for the presidency of Zanzibar and the chairmanship of the Revolutionary Council.

He expressed gratitude to his party members for their trust and is committed to running a dignified, issue-focused campaign.

“I will conduct a civilised campaign that allows Zanzibaris to scrutinise my policies and those of others, empowering them to make informed choices that prioritise the future of Zanzibar and Tanzania,” he said.

Policies aligned with Makini’s vision

Mr Ameir is confident that the policies of the Makini Party have already influenced national and regional development agendas.

He argues that the government led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan has adopted ideas inspired by Makini, particularly in the healthcare sector. 

“The expansion of health centres and investment in medical equipment are direct results of the policies we championed. Denying a citizen access to healthcare is tantamount to denying them the right to live,” Mr Ameir asserted.

He also highlighted the alignment of President Hussein Ali Mwinyi’s administration in Zanzibar with Makini’s policy framework, suggesting that it proves the party’s vision resonates beyond its scope.

“It’s time for Zanzibaris to choose a leader who comes from a party with the best policies,” he added.

Grassroots campaign strategy

Mr Ameir plans to engage in a grassroots campaign, prioritizing personal interactions with voters.

He believes that conversations with ordinary citizens should be interactive rather than one-sided speeches.

“Whenever I see a gathering, I’ll stop and talk to them, allowing more time for their questions rather than me presenting lengthy explanations,” he explained.

Education as the foundation for change

Ameir speaks with passion about education, viewing it as crucial for both personal and national transformation. Having overcome obstacles to pursue his own education, he returned to school as an adult while employed in the hospitality industry.

He later founded Sky View School in Melinne Taveta, Urban District, Unguja. What started as a small English course in 2011 has evolved into a comprehensive institution offering education from nursery to secondary levels, now serving over 400 pupils and employing 22 teachers and additional support staff. The school also gives free education to 22 orphans.

“I understand the struggle for education, and that’s why I am dedicated to advocating for access to learning for all,” said Mr Ameir, who currently serves as the school’s executive director, combining his teaching background with management experience.

Journey from humble beginnings

Born on March 19, 1973, at Mnazi Mmoja Hospital in Unguja, Mr Ameir is the eldest of 21 children.

He completed his primary education at Mwanakwerekwe C Primary School in Urban West Region in 1986.

Financial challenges led him to various jobs in hotels across Unguja and Dar es Salaam, where he worked in multiple capacities, including as a driver.

Recognizing that education was vital for progression, he resumed his studies in 2002 at Sufa Secondary School in Tomondo, completing his O-Levels in 2005, and later pursuing A-Levels privately.

He earned a teaching diploma from the State University of Zanzibar in 2008 and studied business administration at the College of Business Education.

Political journey

Mr Ameir’s political career spans over three decades, beginning in the ruling CCM party in 1992. He later joined the UMD Party, serving as deputy treasurer for Zanzibar in 1998.

In 1999, he co-founded Democracy Makini with the late Professor Leonard Shao. Initially elected deputy secretary general in 2000, he became the party’s secretary general in 2010, a position he still holds.

Despite previous unsuccessful attempts to win parliamentary seats in Fuoni and Pangawe constituencies, he is now vying for the presidency, buoyed by the full backing of his party.

“I am both physically and mentally prepared to lead. Having experienced the struggles of ordinary Zanzibaris firsthand, I understand their challenges better than anyone else. I believe I am uniquely positioned to deliver the development they have long been denied,” he said.

Ambitious commitments

At the core of Mr Ameir’s manifesto is his commitment to implement a monthly stipend for every Zanzibari, a transformative measure he believes will uplift communities across the archipelago.