UNGUJA: President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Zanzibar President Hussein Mwinyi joined hundreds of mourners on Sunday in a prayer ceremony marking 54 years since the assassination of Zanzibar’s founding leader, Abeid Amani Karume.
The ceremony, held at the ruling party’s sub-headquarters in Kisiwandui, brought together political leaders, religious figures and members of the public in a show of unity and remembrance.
Religious leaders from Muslim, Christian and Hindu communities led interfaith prayers, while wreaths were laid in honour of Karume’s legacy.
Karume, who played a central role in the 1964 Zanzibar Revolution, is widely credited with laying the foundations for the islands’ socio-economic transformation.
Among those attending were Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba, former Zanzibar president Ali Mohamed Shein, Chief Justice George Masaju and CCM Vice-Chairperson (Mainland) Stephen Wasira.
Wreaths were also laid by senior security officials, diplomats, members of the Karume family and community elders.
Zanzibar’s development drive reflects enduring influence of Karume’s social vision
Speakers at the event said Karume’s legacy should be honoured not only in remembrance but through continued efforts to promote unity, social justice and development.
Wasira described Karume as a patriotic and hardworking leader, urging Tanzanians to draw inspiration from his values. Minister of State Hamza Hassan Juma called for integrity and commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous Zanzibar.
Regional Commissioner Mohammed Ali Abdalla said Karume remained a symbol of people-centred leadership, while Zanzibar Infrastructure Minister Khalid Salum Mohammed said his policies on free education, healthcare and housing continue to shape development today.
Officials also highlighted Karume’s emphasis on unity and equality, with speakers urging younger generations to uphold the ideals of the 1964 Revolution.
As Zanzibar marked more than five decades since his death, leaders said Karume’s vision continues to guide the islands’ path towards stability and sustainable development.