By Alfred Zacharia
ACT-Wazalendo chairperson Othman Masoud Othman has said the party exists beyond elections, describing it as a platform for liberation, democratic reform and people-centred development.
Mr Othman made the remarks on January 18, 2026, while opening a meeting of the party’s Central Committee at the Hakainde Hichilema Hall, located in the Maalim Seif Building in Magomeni, Dar es Salaam.
He said ACT-Wazalendo does not view elections as an end in themselves, but as one of several tools in a broader struggle to advance democracy, protect citizens’ rights and push for accountable leadership.
“ACT-Wazalendo is not here just to participate in elections,” Mr Othman said. “We are a vehicle for liberation, reform and development, guided by the interests of wananchi.”
The meeting brought together senior party figures, including former party leader Zitto Kabwe, former chairperson Juma Duni Haji and former presidential candidate Luhaga Mpina, reflecting an effort to consolidate internal unity and chart the party’s post-election direction.
Mr Othman used the platform to reflect on the party’s participation in the October 2025 General Election, saying ACT-Wazalendo deliberately chose to compete in order to expose what it sees as deep-seated weaknesses in the country’s democratic processes.
“We entered the election knowing the environment was not democratic,” he said. “But we could not stay silent. We had to show the country and the world the reality of our democratic challenges.”
He argued that democratic deficits cannot be addressed by withdrawal or silence, but through sustained political engagement and pressure.
According to Mr Othman, the party’s strategy is now focused on strengthening its organisational structures and deepening its presence among citizens.
“Our task is to keep the party alive, strong and relevant,” he said. “At the same time, we must remain firm in defending human rights and ensuring that the choices made by citizens are respected.”
He said ACT-Wazalendo will continue to position itself as a watchdog on governance issues, even outside election periods, insisting that accountability and respect for democratic principles must be continuous.
Political analysts say the remarks underline a broader trend among opposition parties seeking to redefine their role after the 2025 elections, shifting from an election-focused approach to sustained civic and political engagement.
For ACT-Wazalendo, Mr Othman said, the mission remains clear.
“This is a long struggle,” he said. “It is about dignity, justice and the future of democracy. Elections are only one chapter in that journey.”