ZANZIBAR Law Society (ZLS) has been urged to take leading role in raising voice and taking action whenever the constitution and laws are violated by government authorities or institutions.

Zanzibar First Vice President Othman Masoud Othman made the call here at the weekend when speaking at the society's annual general meeting.

He emphasized that when citizens are denied their rights, the law society should be their refuge, ensuring that their rights are protected according to the constitution and ither laws.

"When the national constitution is breached by any person or authority, the law society should be at the forefront in raising its voice and taking appropriate action against such violations," he said.

He also noted that the society has a responsibility to safeguard civil rights, including advocating for cases in the public interest to promote good governance.

"It is wrong and deeply shameful when civil rights are endangered, whether due to those in authority or business interests. It is not right for the law society to remain silent and neglect its duty to speak out. Without this, citizens will lack a strong protector against abuses of power hence lack of accountability, corruption and systemic injustices," he added.

Othman explained that many people in Zanzibar are deprived of their rights, particularly in areas such as land ownership and the right to vote and be elected due to misuse of laws or failure to adhere to them, which is against Zanzibar's 1984 constitution.

He also urged lawyers to dedicate time to educating citizens about their rights and provide legal aid when citizens face issues or are denied justice.

Haroun Ali Suleiman, Zanzibar Minister for Constitution, Legal Affairs and Public Service, encouraged lawyers to uphold ethical standards in their profession, act fairly and build trust with the government, stating that there is no issue with advising or even criticizing the government.

He added that the government continues its efforts to strengthen the government of national unity and called on lawyers to support the efforts to foster national unity among Zanzibaris.

Former ZLS President Masoud Rukazibwa mentioned that they face various challenges, including lack of opportunities to be appointed by the government to oversee contracts for various development projects.

He also highlighted the challenge of limited resources, particularly in rural areas where legal services are greatly needed.