ACT-Wazalendo, led by Othman Masoud Othman, is shifting its focus from reconciliation to political struggle aimed at promoting democracy in Tanzania. The party urges collaboration among political groups for the liberation of citizens, emphasizing accountability in resource management and citizen involvement in governance, particularly after electoral irregularities in recent years.
ACT-Wazalendo, under the leadership of Chairman Othman Masoud Othman, has undergone a strategic shift, moving from a reconciliation-focused approach to one emphasizing political struggle aimed at democratizing Tanzania. During a press conference in Dar es Salaam, Mr. Othman articulated that this ‘struggle’ does not imply violence but signifies a committed effort to secure democracy for Tanzanians.
Mr. Othman extended an invitation to other political parties to collaborate in what he referred to as the effort to ‘liberate’ the Tanzanian populace. He underscored the importance of collective political activism, asserting that without unified action, the citizens would remain politically subjugated.
This appeal for collaboration, he clarified, is grounded in the pursuit of democratic ideals rather than being linked to the imminent General Election. During the press conference, Mr. Othman emphasized that “struggle politics means fighting for what we believe in to ensure its success,” reiterating the party’s primary objective of establishing democratic governance in Tanzania.
He elaborated on the crucial aspect of citizen involvement in governance, equating it to owning a property without any say in its management. Mr. Othman urged that governance should reflect the will of the people, consistent with the demand for the full implementation of the national constitution, enabling citizens to participate in decisions impacting their lives.
Moreover, he highlighted the necessity of integrating economic accountability within the democratization process. The role of elections was noted as fundamental for fostering transparency and ensuring responsibility among public officials. In addressing issues of resource management, Mr. Othman posed a rhetorical question concerning accountability in governance, specifically regarding the management of tax revenues and the operation of natural resources in Tanzania 10 gold, tanzanite, oil, and gas.
Reflecting on the broader political landscape, Mr. Othman recognized a growing discontent among Tanzanians in the wake of alleged electoral irregularities in 2019 and 2020. He acknowledged previous efforts aimed at reconciliation, noting ACT-Wazalendo’s significant participation in discussions on electoral and constitutional reforms initiated by the sixth-phase government.
In conclusion, ACT-Wazalendo’s strategic pivot towards a politics of struggle emphasizes the necessity of democratic engagement and accountability in Tanzania. By inviting collaboration from other political parties, the party seeks to empower citizens’ voices in governance and ensure responsible management of national resources. This approach signifies a profound commitment to advancing democracy in Tanzania and reflects the collective frustrations of the populace following recent electoral challenges.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
