Fourteen representatives of ACT Wazalendo chose to boycott the inauguration of the 11th House of Representatives in Zanzibar yesterday, taking a clear stand for citizens whose votes were ignored in the October 2025 elections.
The representatives, ten from constituencies and four women’s special seat members, explained that their absence was not a refusal to serve but a principled protest against election irregularities that denied citizens their constitutional right to freely choose their leaders.
Attending the ceremony under these circumstances, they said, would have been a disservice to the people they were elected to represent.
ACT Wazalendo officials stressed that the party had legitimately won in multiple constituencies before government interference reversed the results.
Citizens’ voices were silenced, and public trust in the democratic process was undermined. By skipping the inauguration, the representatives sent a strong message that the party stands firmly with the people, putting citizens’ rights and dignity above ceremonial formalities.
The party’s representatives pledged to continue advocating for transparency, justice, and accountability. They emphasized that their commitment to the people of Zanzibar remains unwavering, and they will work tirelessly to ensure that every citizen’s vote counts and that the democratic process is respected.
“This is a stand for fairness and for the people. We will continue to fight for the restoration of rightful outcomes and defend the voices of every Zanzibari who has been denied their vote,” said the ACT Wazalendo representatives.
Through this principled decision, ACT Wazalendo highlights the importance of safeguarding citizens’ rights and protecting the integrity of democracy, showing that elected leaders must always prioritize public trust and the will of the people.