Concerns have emerged in Zanzibar over how citizenship and residency identity documents are being issued, with the opposition party ACT Wazalendo calling for a full review of the system to ensure fairness, legal compliance, and proper protection of local identity.
The debate follows recent public statements suggesting that long-term residence in Zanzibar—such as living there for ten years—could qualify a person to be issued a Zanzibar Identity Card (ZAN ID).
The remarks have sparked public discussion on what truly defines a Mzanzibari under existing laws.
ACT Wazalendo has raised concerns that such interpretations may oversimplify legal requirements and create confusion about citizenship and residency status.
The party says Zanzibar identity should be guided by clear legal procedures rather than general administrative practice.
According to the party, Zanzibar already has established laws that define who qualifies as a citizen or resident. It argues that these laws include several conditions that must be met, not just length of stay.
These include lawful residence, good conduct, knowledge of Kiswahili, and proper legal entry into the islands.
The party also pointed to the importance of maintaining accurate population and identity records to support effective planning and delivery of public services such as health, education, and social welfare.
ACT Wazalendo further raised concerns about the management of identity registration through the civil registration system handled by ZCRS.
It says proper categories, including those for non-citizen residents, should be clearly applied as provided by law.
According to the party, failure to clearly distinguish between citizens and non-citizen residents may place additional pressure on government services and make it harder to plan and allocate public resources effectively.
At the same time, ACT Wazalendo emphasized that its concerns are not meant to divide people or weaken national unity.
Instead, it says the goal is to ensure that laws are followed properly and that every person living in Zanzibar is recognized under the correct legal category.
The party has therefore called on the House of Representatives to conduct a formal review of the ZAN ID system and related registration processes.
It wants a parliamentary committee to examine whether current practices align with existing laws and procedures.
It also called for clearer public information on how citizenship by naturalisation is granted and how many people have been approved in recent years. The party says transparency would help reduce misunderstandings and strengthen public trust.
In its statement, ACT Wazalendo urged the government to ensure that identity systems are managed in a way that is fair, lawful, and beneficial to all residents.
It stressed that strong legal procedures are important for protecting both citizens’ rights and the integrity of public services.
