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Hamad to whittle down Isles ’huge’ security forces
2005-10-04 00:02:04
By Issa Yussuf, Zanzibar
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CUF`s Isles presidential candidate, Seif Sharif Hamad, addresses journalists (not shown in picture) at Mazsoon Hotel in Zanzibar yesterday. (Photo: Khalfan Said) |
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Zanzibar presidential candidate on CUF ticket, Seif Shariff Hamad, has promised to downsize security forces on the Islands if elected president.
He said he would also wage a major war against narcotics trade, which he said is thriving in Zanzibar.
Hamad told a press conference that Zanzibar has a bloated security force that would have to be sliced from the current 20,000-plus personnel to a leaner, more efficient and manageable force.
’’CUF does not see the reason for such a big force for the Isles’ population of about one million.
The ratio should be one soldier to 1,000 people, which would translate to 5,000 soldiers for the Isles,’’ he said.
He said that, despite the heavy presence of security forces in Zanzibar, security is a major problem.
Hamad said that his government would inherit all the forces before pruning them down by creating jobs for those who would be retrenched.
He blamed the CCM government for politicising the forces, which had led to increased insecurity on the Islands.
’’All entry points to Zanzibar are in a mess because security forces are not doing their work. They are instead busy suppressing opposition parties,’’ he said.
He added: ’’Under CUF government, we will ensure security forces and local government leaders (shehas), regional commissioners and district commissioners are de- politicised.’’
Hamad said that his government would undertake major reforms of the forces by providing modern military facilities, better training and improve remuneration.
He also promised to expand Zanzibar harbours and airports and improve security at all entry points to check terrorism and escalating armed robbery.
He appealed to the Zanzibaris to maintain peace and stability ahead of the general election.
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