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CUF:JK can resolve Isles’ political impasse
2006-11-08 09:02:17
By Issa Yussuf, Zanzibar
As the row between CUF and Zanzibar President, Amani Karume over the formation of a government of national unity deepens, CUF has planned for mass demonstrations to press for talks with government on political destiny of the Isles.
At the same time, CUF took a swipe at President Karume for his reluctance to allow open discussions on how to resolve the raging political squabbles on the Isles.
The opposition on the Isles now banks its hope on President Jakaya Kikwete to intervene and come up with a long lasting solution to the political divide.
Local press recently quoted Karume saying no discussion had been going on between his administration and CUF to resolve the political impasse.
However, CUF has called on its supporters and members to remain calm. A meeting convened by CUF to delve on the political stalemate asked the opposition members to refrain from acts of violence.
During the meeting, CUF youth leaders accused Karume of plotting to drive the country into chaos.
The meeting was held at Jamat-Khan Hall, Stone Town. The meeting was addressed by among others, Ali Hajji Pandu, Nassor Mazrui, and Nassor Khamis.
”We are advocating for peace and political stability, but CCM leaders are doing the contrary,” they noted.
The leaders who addressed the meeting said there was high chance of resolving the political stalemate if President Kikwete steps in.
”Be patient because there is still hope Kikwete would do something positive to resolve the political impasse,” a CUF leader was heard advising supporters and members.
At the same time the opposition party plans to organise a countrywide peaceful demonstration to condemn what they described as inflammatory remarks by President Amani Abeid Karume.
”President’s statements aimed at limiting space for Zanzibaris to elect their government in a free and fair election,” said CUF National Chairman, Prof. Ibrahim Lipumba, in an official statement circulated to media houses yesterday.
”The government wants to deny people their basic rights. CUF is afraid of the President’s statements,” he added.
Political pundits believe that the planned demonstration may not alter the trend of events apart from fanning chaos and violence.
The opposition party once staged a massive peaceful demonstration to press for the resignation of former Inspector General of Police (IGP), Omar Mahita.
They accused Mahita of his utterances, linking CUF to a series of armed robberies that had rocked Dar es Salaam.
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