Africa-Press – Tanzania. EIGHTEEN out of 19 registered political parties in Zanzibar have signed the election code of conduct ahead of the General Election scheduled for October 29th this year, demonstrating a shared commitment to peaceful, fair and transparent polls.
The only party absent was CHADEMA, which earlier announced it would not participate in the election. The signing ceremony took place at the Zanzibar Electoral Commission (ZEC) headquarters in Maisara, in the ‘Retired Judge Hamid Mahmoud’ Hall.
The event was presided over by ZEC Chairman, Justice George Kazi and also featured the official launch of the 2025 General Election logo. Early voting for election officials and security personnel is scheduled for October 28th this year.
In his remarks, Justice Kazi urged all political parties to adhere to electoral laws, regulations and campaign guidelines, stressing the need to respect the rights of all candidates, especially women and people with disabilities.
“Hostility in politics brings no benefit, it only harms society,” he warned.
“I urge all political parties to manage your campaign speeches responsibly and avoid inflammatory language that could disrupt peace.”
Chairperson of ZEC Ethics Committee, Justice Aziza Iddi Suwed said the code of conduct was developed collaboratively with input from political parties, government bodies and security agencies to ensure a level playing field.
“The code aligns with regional and international democratic standards and requires all parties to commit to clean campaigns free of insults and personal attacks,” she explained.
Speaking on behalf of the political parties, Chama cha Demokrasia Makini leader Mr Ameir Hassan Ameir pledged full compliance with the code, stating that parties would prioritise policy-based campaigning.
“We are committed to peaceful and issue-focused campaigns. We trust that ZEC and security agencies will guarantee a free and fair election,” he said.
To reinforce the message of unity and peace, ZEC officials and election stakeholders held a peace march from Kikwajuni to Maisara. ZEC Director Mr Thabit Idarous Faina said the march symbolised the official start of the election season and Zanzibar’s collective com
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