Zanzibar’s GNU presents new beginning, not the end

ZANZIBAR: THE restoration of Zanzibar’s Government of National Unity (GNU) following the swearing-in of Othman Masoud Othman as First VicePresident marks an important moment in the islands’ political history.

The development represents an opportunity to turn reconciliation between the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) and ACT-Wazalendo into practical cooperation that benefits citizens.

President Dr Hussein Mwinyi was right to emphasise that the restoration of the GNU should not be treated as the conclusion of Zanzibar’s political journey. The real test begins now.

Reconciliation has meaning only when it produces greater political stability, public confidence and tangible improvements in people’s lives.

The Joint Declaration on Political Reconciliation signed by CCM and ACT-Wazalendo on July 9, 2026, created the foundation for this new phase.

Its significance lies partly in the fact that the settlement was reached through dialogue between Zanzibar’s political actors themselves.

That demonstrates the value of local political ownership and the ability of competing parties to address differences through engagement rather than prolonged confrontation.

However, reconciliation should not become merely an arrangement for sharing political positions. Mr Othman himself made this point clearly when he described the GNU as an instrument for reconciliation and national unity.

That principle should guide the government’s conduct in the months and years ahead. Zanzibaris have expectations that extend beyond political symbolism.

They need jobs, particularly for young people; stronger health and education services; reliable water and energy supplies; better infrastructure and wider economic opportunities.

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Tourism, the Blue Economy and investment also offer important avenues for growth, but their benefits must reach ordinary citizens.

The restored GNU, therefore, carries a dual responsibility: To preserve political peace while delivering economic and social progress.

Political leaders must demonstrate that cooperation does not require abandoning legitimate differences, but rather managing those differences within a framework where national interests take priority.

The inclusion of leaders from both sides at the swearing-in ceremony was a welcome symbol of the new political atmosphere.

Yet, symbolism must now give way to sustained action. Zanzibar has been given another opportunity to make national unity a foundation for development.

Whether this opportunity succeeds will depend not simply on agreements signed or offices occupied, but on the honesty, accountability, cooperation and commitment with which leaders serve the people.

The restoration of the GNU is, therefore, not the destination. It is the beginning of a more demanding journey, one in which reconciliation must ultimately be measured by peace preserved, opportunities created and lives improved.

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