Reps want Zanzibar EAC membership

From ISSA YUSUF in Zanzibar, 

MEMBERS of Zanzibar's House of Representatives have suggested that it was time for Zanzibar to join the East African Community (EAC) to enable the Isles present non-Union matters before the regional body.

"Since there are Union and non-Union matters, we have to be an independent member of EAC, to enhance Tanzania's strength in the regional cooperation," said Mr Ismail Jussa Ladu (CUF- Mji Mkongwe), amid applause from the floor.

Mr Rashid Seif Suleiman (CUF- Ziwani), and Mr Hamza Hassan Juma (CCM- Kwamtipura) joined forces to ask questions about the position of Zanzibar in the EAC and its participation at all meetings.

In response, the Minister of State, Dr Mwinyihaji Makame Mwadini, said although the current constitution (as amended) identifies Zanzibar as an equal partner state in the Union, it is too early for isolation.

"We're involved in the East African Community matters. We take part in almost all meetings and raise issues (including non-Union matters) for the interest of Zanzibar. We also take part in technical meetings involving experts in the region," said Dr Mwinyihaji.

He told the House that even the Isles' President, Dr Ali Mohamed Shein, has been attending meetings convened for heads of state from EAC member states.

Dr Mwinyihaji mentioned some of the benefits for Zanzibar in the community as financing of the planned construction of new sea port at Maruhubi on Unguja Island, and the construction tax way at Zanzibar airport.

Mr Mohamed Aboud Mohamed, State Minister in the Second Vice- President's Office said although section 150 of the protocol allows member states to call for review, Zanzibar should avoid demanding for independent membership in the community.

"Zanzibar has been benefiting through the umbrella of the Union of Tanzania. Each member state for example has to pay 5m USD as annual fee. Zanzibar does not pay because the Union government pays," said Mohamed when giving additional answers to the question.