Zanzibar's tourism minister Simai Mohammed resigns

Unguja. Minister of Tourism and Heritage in the Zanzibar Revolutionary Government, Simai Mohamed Said, has resigned, citing ‘unfavorable and disruptive working conditions’.

In a statement to the public, Simai, who is also a representative of the Tunguu constituency for the CCM, said he had submitted his resignation letter to President Dr. Mwinyi due to the difficult conditions he faced in carrying out his duties.

His resignationhas been confirmed by the Director of Communications at the State House and Government Spokesperson Charles Hilary.

"Dear citizens, I would like to inform you that I have written a letter to His Excellency the President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Zanzibar Revolutionary Council to resign from my position as Minister of Tourism and Cultural Heritage effective today (yesterday)," Simai said, adding, "I have made this decision, which is not easy in our culture.

"Based on my belief that the number one responsibility of the President's assistants, including Ministers, is to help him implement the party's manifesto. And when an unfavorable environment arises in carrying out this important task for the well-being of the people, it is good to find an answer quickly so that the work of bringing development to the people can continue, and even if it is necessary to step aside.

"I have made the difficult decision to step aside."

Simai's resignation comes just days after he met with players in the hospitality industry to discuss the shortage of alcohol in Zanzibar saying it was affecting the tourism sector.

He said that it is not appropriate to play with the tourism sector, as it contributes significantly to the national income and provides employment for many young people in Zanzibar.

Simai thanked President Mwinyi for trusting him with various ministerial positions in his government since he took office three years ago.

"I am very grateful to President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi for trusting me to appoint me as Minister of Education and Vocational Training and ultimately Minister of Tourism and Cultural Heritage. I will continue to be loyal to the government and my party, the Revolutionary Party," he said.

Prior to his resignation Simai had served as minister of education and vocational training, Minister for Health before he was moved to the Tourism ministry where he served until his resignation last night.