Zanzibar’s President Urgent call for One Nation in unity Ahead of Elections
As Zanzibar gears up for its General Election in October, President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi has urged citizens to prioritize peace and unity during this crucial period.
Speaking at the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations at Ziwani Police grounds in Unguja this morning, March 31, 2025, Dr. Mwinyi called on people of all faiths to pray for the nation and ensure a smooth electoral process. His message was clear: unity and cooperation are key to the country’s stability, both now and for future generations.
President makes a prayer for unity and oneness
“We pray to Almighty God to sustain our unity and cooperation for the benefit and well-being of our nation. May He help us navigate this period safely while maintaining our togetherness for the good of both present and future generations,” he said.
The Eid-ul-Fitr gathering, attended by Islamic faithful as well as current and former national leaders, also highlighted the core values of Ramadan. Dr. Mwinyi emphasized the importance of acts of kindness, particularly zakat (almsgiving) and sadaqah (charity), as ways to strengthen social bonds and promote economic stability.
“These acts eliminate envy and hatred while strengthening solidarity and economic stability in our communities. Such values are crucial for our society’s progress,” he noted.
Beyond the Islamic community, the President also acknowledged the support and cooperation of non-Muslims during Ramadan, emphasizing that religious tolerance remains a pillar of Zanzibar’s social harmony.
The relevance of security
Security was another key point in his address. With increased movement and festivities during Eid, he called on authorities to enhance security in public spaces and enforce traffic laws to prevent avoidable accidents. “During festivities, roads experience increased traffic, leading to unexpected accidents. It is crucial to enforce traffic laws to avoid such incidents. Additionally, we must safeguard our children and the general public from any actions that may disrupt peace and joy during the celebrations,” he stressed.
Islamic scholar Ustadh Muhamed Suleiman Zuberi reinforced the importance of national unity, citing the Quran and urging citizens to support their leaders. “Listening to our leaders is an act of worship. When peace prevails, people can carry out their daily activities without disruption, the economy thrives, and development is achieved,” he said.
The event brought together high-ranking leaders, including First Vice President Othman Masoud, Second Vice President Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, Speaker of the House of Representatives Zubeir Maulid, and Zanzibar’s Chief Justice Khamis Ramadhan Abdalla. Also in attendance were former Presidents Amani Abeid Karume and Dr. Ali Mohamed Shein, alongside a former Second Vice President.
As the election season approaches, the call for peace and national unity remains more important than ever. Dr. Mwinyi’s message serves as a timely reminder that preserving harmony is a collective responsibility that will shape Zanzibar’s future.
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