Chaumma Union presidential candidate Salum Mwalimu has promised major constitutional changes if elected, focusing on full autonomy for Zanzibar and Tanganyika as well as promoting the blue economy to boost job creation.
Speaking during a campaign rally in Iringa on Tuesday, Mr. Mwalimu said Chaumma plans to adopt a governance system where Zanzibar and Tanganyika control their own internal affairs, while the Union Government will only handle key Union matters such as foreign affairs, defense, and citizenship.
“This system will strengthen democracy and end unnecessary conflicts between the two governments,” he told supporters.
The blue economy—a strategy that aims to harness ocean resources for economic growth while protecting marine ecosystems—is another key priority in Chaumma’s manifesto. Mwalimu said the Indian Ocean and Zanzibar’s rich marine resources could create thousands of jobs in fisheries, tourism, shipping, and renewable energy projects.
Analysts say this policy could attract significant investments, but it also faces challenges such as balancing economic growth with environmental protection and addressing long-standing debates on Union powers and revenue sharing.
The election campaign is heating up as political parties unveil their manifestos ahead of the general elections.
Chaumma’s position on Zanzibar autonomy and economic empowerment through the blue economy is likely to spark debate among voters and other political parties.
