WE WILL GIVE KARUME CREDIT IF WE GET INDIPENDENT ELECTION COMMISION AND HAVE PEACEFUL ELECTION NEXT YEAR

ISSA YUSSUF in Pemba, 17th December 2009 @ 11:00, Total Comments: 0, Hits: 218

THE appointment of Civic United Front members, Mr Juma Duni Haji and
Mr Nassor Ahmed Mazrui into the Zanzibar House of Representatives was
a sign of political goodwill by President Amani Abeid Karume.

The duo had also urged the isles leader to do more in uniting Zanzibaris.

They told the 'Daily News' at different occasions that they welcomed
the new appointment which was the result of the ongoing Karume/Hamad
new political relationship which started last month, but Zanzibaris
expect to see the president and his government work on serious issues,
which had divided Zanzibaris.

"I am happy that we are going on well. President Karume is showing
commitment to build a new Zanzibar after decades of repeatedly
political crisis. I appeal to Zanzibaris to continue being patient to
allow the president tackle other issues," said Mr Hajji.


Asked if his new post of being a legislator would not affect his
campaign for human rights and smooth democracy, Hajji replied: "We
remain loyal to CUF ideology and I will be in the House for the
interest of the people and nation. Hopefully we are going to work with
our colleagues from CCM to push for development. Anything contrary to
the interest of the people and nation will be rejected."

Mr Mazrui said that he would wish to see the government work on
serious issues such as reforms on the constitution and a truly
independent electoral commission to win the trust of the people before
next the general elections.

"I am happy for the new post and we thank the president. Let us hope
to see more good things that will minimize unnecessary tension in the
islands for better life," Mr Mazrui said.

Both Mr Hajji and Mr Mazrui are expected to be sworn-in as legislators
on the beginning of the Zanzibar House session on January 20, 2010.

While Mr Hajji remains with the posts (deputy Secretary General, and
director of finance, and member of the central committee) in the
party, Mr Mazrui will also still enjoy his current posts of CUF deputy
director of administration and a member of the central committee.

According to the Zanzibar House of Representatives business schedule,
the new legislators will take part in only three sessions (January,
April, and June) before the president dissolves the House for the
general elections.