CCM presidential candidate Samia Suluhu Hassan has urged Tanzanians to protect the nation’s hard-won peace, security and harmony as the country heads into the general elections, warning that unity remains the cornerstone of development and democracy.

Speaking today at a packed rally in Makunduchi, Unguja South Region, where she officially launched her election campaign in the Isles, Samia said elections must not be viewed as a battlefield but as a democratic exercise where differences of opinion are resolved peacefully.

“Peace and stability in our country are more important than anything else. Elections are not a war but a democratic process. Our defence and security organs, both in Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, are fully prepared to protect this peace. Citizens must remain calm and united,” she said to loud cheers from the crowd.

Samia reaffirmed her commitment to safeguarding the historic Tanzania–Zanzibar Union, which she described as one of the nation’s greatest achievements, having opened doors for international cooperation and development opportunities. 

She pledged to establish a Tanzania–Zanzibar Union Documentation and Memory Centre to preserve the history of the Union and provide a resource for young people and visitors from around the world.