Zanzibaris mark 53rd anniversary of Karume’s death with calls for unity and development

Unguja. Leaders and citizens gathered at the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) headquarters in Zanzibar on 7th April 2025 to mark the 53rd anniversary of the death of the founding father of the Zanzibar nation, the late Abeid Aman Karume. The occasion was marked by a prayer service that brought together political leaders, citizens and other stakeholders, with a call for unity, justice and development in the spirit of Karume’s vision.

The event was led by the Second Vice President, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, who represented President Dr Hussein Mwinyi, currently on an official visit in the United Kingdom. During the service, the Deputy Kadhi of Zanzibar, Sheikh Ally Khamis, delivered remarks on behalf of the Chief Mufti of Mainland Tanzania, Sheikh Abubakar Zuber.

Sheikh Khamis urged the people of Zanzibar to continue upholding the values that Karume held dear, especially peace, love, and unity, which he believed were essential for the development of the nation. He stressed that without these foundational principles, true progress would not be achievable.

"Without peace, there is no life," said Sheikh Khamis. "This is an important matter that we should continue to cherish and maintain for the benefit of future generations."

Karume’s Legacy
The late Karume, who was assassinated on 7th April 1972, remains a revered figure in Zanzibar's history. He was shot by his bodyguard at the Afro Shiraz Party headquarters in Kisiwandui, Zanzibar Town, where his remains were later buried. His death, following his significant contributions to the island’s political and social reforms, continues to shape the national discourse.

Chairman of the Council of Elders for the Civic United Front (CUF), Abdallah Hamad Hassan, highlighted Karume’s inclusive leadership style, which prioritised the welfare of all Zanzibaris, irrespective of their social status. He encouraged current leaders to emulate Karume’s example of selfless service to the people.

"Karume was a man of the people; he solved challenges for everyone, from the rich to the poor," said Hassan. "We must follow his example and put the interests of the people first, regardless of political affiliation."

CCM’s Mainland Tanzania Vice Chairman, Mr Stephen Wasira, shared his personal memories of Karume, recalling their first meeting in 1971 when he was a young Member of Parliament. Wasira spoke about the wisdom Karume imparted on them, urging the younger generation to accomplish great things for their country.

"He told us: 'Young people of Tanzania, do great things before you die,'" Wasira said. "He lived by his own words, leaving behind a legacy of significant achievements for the nation."

Wasira also stressed Karume’s commitment to Pan-Africanism, noting that Karume was a passionate advocate for African unity and attended numerous Pan-African meetings to support freedom struggles across the continent.

Zanzibar’s development today, Wasira said, is a direct result of Karume’s vision. He pointed out that under Karume’s leadership, key initiatives like free education and healthcare were introduced, setting the stage for significant socio-economic progress.

"Karume’s legacy lives on in the schools, hospitals, and other infrastructure being built today. The development we see now is a continuation of his efforts," Wasira added.

Ambassador Ali Karume, son of the late leader, said that his father’s legacy also included the establishment of a new democratic framework in Zanzibar. Under Karume’s leadership, Zanzibaris were given the unprecedented opportunity to elect their president and representatives, replacing the monarchical system that had existed before the revolution.

“Mzee Karume helped us establish a new democracy where we elect our president and parliamentarians. He spread that vision across the nation,” Ali Karume said.

The event also saw reflections from other key leaders, including the Member of Parliament for Konde, Zawadi Nassor, who emphasised the importance of continuing Karume’s legacy of patriotism and unity. He urged leaders to work together for the betterment of Zanzibar, following the example set by Karume.

"Leaders must be patriotic and work for the good of the people, as Karume did with a small group of allies," Nassor said. "His wisdom and vision for unity continue to guide us."

The prayer service was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Vice President Dr Philip Mpango, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, and former Presidents of Zanzibar Aman Abeid Karume and Dr Ali Mohamed Shein. Senior leaders from security agencies, political parties, and other sectors were also present to pay their respects.

As Zanzibar continues to develop, the memory of its founding father, Abeid Aman Karume, remains a guiding force for the nation’s pursuit of unity, peace, and sustainable progress.