SECOND Vice President of Zanzibar, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, has emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining and strengthening peace and unity across the islands as the nation approaches the October General Election.

Speaking yesterday during the opening of a conference aimed at promoting peace in Pemba, Abdulla highlighted that peace and social cohesion are critical foundations for development. “Without peace, no progress can be achieved. Instead, the result is destruction of infrastructure, loss of lives, and damage to property,” he said.

He further noted that the significant achievements in education, health, roads, water supply, ports, markets and workers’ welfare have greatly contributed to improving citizens’ wellbeing. Abdulla attributed these successes to strong leadership and a climate of peace and unity, which he described as essential ingredients for achieving the nation’s development goals.

Addressing political leaders, he urged them to use language that fosters harmony and cooperation rather than inciting division or unrest. Similarly, he called on religious leaders to continue preaching peace among their congregations, encouraging parents to guide young people not to be used as tools for disrupting social harmony under the guise of elections.

Abdulla also stressed the responsibility of journalists to operate professionally, adhering to ethical standards while reporting, and to provide information that promotes peace and social cohesion.

Supporting these remarks, Rashid Hadid Rashid, Pemba South Regional Commissioner, described peace as one of the greatest national treasures. 

“There is every reason to safeguard and sustain the peace that exists in our country. Once lost, it is extremely difficult to restore,” he said. Rashid emphasized that divisive politics based on hatred are outdated and have never contributed to development anywhere in the world. He reassured citizens that security agencies remain vigilant to ensure peace prevails before, during and after elections.

The conference was coordinated by Miza Hassan Faki, Mkoani District Comissioner, who said the goal was to bring together various institutions to discuss strategies for maintaining national harmony. He emphasized that building and sustaining peace is a collective effort that transcends religion, gender and social status, requiring everyone to play their part in ensuring that peace is preserved for future generations.

The discussions at the conference are expected to yield actionable recommendations for maintaining calm, enabling leaders and communities to focus on development initiatives without disruption during the electoral period.

Abdulla concluded by reiterating that a stable and united society is key to realizing Zanzibar’s broader developmental aspirations, and that every citizen has a role to play in nurturing and protecting peace.