N※N

Zanzibar Braces for CCM Act Review Findings

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. zanzibar-braces-for-ccm-act-review-findings.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 11:01 GMT by The Citizen
      Locales: Zanzibar, TANZANIA UNITED REPUBLIC OF

Zanzibar, February 11th, 2026 - The semi-autonomous island archipelago of Zanzibar is bracing for the imminent release of findings from a protracted review of the controversial CCM Act. Second Vice-President Othman Abas announced yesterday that the outcomes of ongoing dialogues are expected "soon," fueling both hope for reform and continued anxiety amongst a population deeply divided over the legislation.

The CCM Act - named after the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party - has been a persistent source of political tension in Zanzibar for decades. While proponents argue it's a necessary framework for maintaining political stability and safeguarding Zanzibar's unique system of governance, critics contend that it unfairly advantages the CCM and suppresses political opposition, hindering true democratic development.

The act, originally established in the early years following the 1964 revolution that united Zanzibar and Pemba with Tanganyika to form Tanzania, grants significant powers to the CCM within the Zanzibari political landscape. Specifically, the Act outlines provisions concerning political party registration, funding, and participation in elections. Opponents claim these provisions create an uneven playing field, making it exceedingly difficult for opposition parties to compete effectively and, in some cases, even to register legally.

Demands for the Act's repeal or significant revision have been a recurring theme in Zanzibari politics, escalating particularly after contested elections in 2015 and 2020. Protests, though often contained by security forces, have highlighted the deep-seated resentment towards what many perceive as a system rigged in favour of the CCM. The government responded by initiating a series of dialogues, involving representatives from opposition parties, civil society organizations, and legal experts, in an attempt to address the growing discontent.

However, the process has been criticized for its slow pace and lack of transparency. The delay in releasing the findings of the review has fueled speculation, ranging from optimistic predictions of sweeping reforms to cynical accusations that the government is merely attempting to placate public opinion without enacting meaningful change. Some analysts suggest the delay is due to internal divisions within the CCM itself, with different factions vying for control over the direction of the reforms.

The Zanzibar House of Representatives has played a crucial role in pushing for clarity and alterations to the Act. Members of the House, even those within the CCM, have publicly called for a more equitable system that allows for genuine political competition. A parliamentary committee was established last year to specifically examine the Act and propose amendments, but its recommendations remain undisclosed pending the official release of the review outcomes.

"The people of Zanzibar have waited long enough," stated Hamza Juma, a prominent civil society leader. "We need to see concrete changes that demonstrate a genuine commitment to democratic principles. This isn't just about repealing a law; it's about building a more inclusive and just society."

The potential ramifications of the CCM Act review are significant. A substantial overhaul of the legislation could usher in a new era of political openness in Zanzibar, attracting investment and strengthening the island's reputation as a stable and democratic destination. However, a perceived lack of progress could exacerbate tensions, leading to further unrest and potentially undermining the fragile peace that has characterized Zanzibar in recent years.

Political analysts are closely monitoring the situation, predicting that the government's response to the review's outcomes will be a critical test of its commitment to political reform. The international community, particularly regional bodies like the East African Community, is also watching with keen interest, as the situation in Zanzibar has implications for broader regional stability and democratic governance. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of Zanzibar's political landscape and the fate of the CCM Act.