By- election in Zanzibar in high gear

From Issa Yussuf in Zanzibar, 

FOCUS now shifts to Mwanyanya ward in Unguja Island where the first by-election since the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) is expected to be held on Sunday.

The opposition party, Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA) has continued to work hard to beat the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) and the Civic United Front party.

Mr Suluhu Ali Rashid, the returning officer in Unguja West district said here yesterday that preparations for the elections were in final stages.

He mentioned that only the mentioned three parties out of the 19 registered ones in the country will field their candidates.

“I appeal for calm during the campaign, voting, and the announcement of the results. We need to maintain peace and unity,” said Suluhu.

The upcoming by-election in Mwanyanya on April 17, 2011 will offer another opportunity to parties to extend their feud after the peaceful battle for presidency, constituency, and councillorship last year.

The councillorship seat fell vacant following the death of Mr Haji Hamad Farahani in November last year. Late Farahani won the seat in last year’s General elections through a CUF ticket.

Potential candidates are expressing confidence over the prospects of becoming the next councillor in the area, and by yesterday, the campaigns had gained momentum and were in high gear.

The three candidates include Mr Hamza Khamis Juma (CCM), Mr Juma Ali Juma (CUF) and Mr Salum Omar Abeid (CHADEMA), all of whom have been cleared to vie for the seat.

According to the returning officer, a total of 4,059 voters are expected to vote in the by-election. The official campaigns kicked off last Saturday (April 9) and candidates have gone flat out in search of votes.