Jonathan To Lead Commonwealth Observer Group To Zanzibar Election

Following his highly acclaimed leadership of the Commonwealth Observer Group in last
month’s Tanzania general elections, the 53-nation body of former British colonies has
given former President Goodluck Jonathan a fresh mandate to lead the charge for the
resolution of the political stalemate in the semi-independent island of Zanzibar.
After the October 25 general elections which produced John Magufuli as the new
President of Tanzania, the Jonathan-led COG and other international observers had
endorsed the polling processes as credible.
However, tension rules on the island of Zanzibar, following the nullification of the
presidential election results by the local electoral body, over claims of irregularities.
International observers have continued to dispute this decision, on the grounds that both
the voting and counting processes were held in an atmosphere of peace.
The Commonwealth which has a history of mediating on the island has kick-started the
international efforts towards resolving the current crisis, by appointing Jonathan as its
Special representative, in what analysts see as an affirmation of the former President’s
towering status as the moral face of democracy and transparent polling in Africa. This
development was conveyed to Jonathan last week in a letter sent to him by the
Commonwealth Secretary General, MrKamalesh Sharma.
In the letter which Sharma personally signed, the Secretary-General had wrote: “As you
are aware, the Zanzibar electoral situation remains unsolved, although recent reports
indicating willingness by the main political parties to engage in talking is encouraging.
In view of the Commonwealth’s historical role as the moral generator of the Muafaka
Accords, it is important that we remain engaged to continue to encourage all concerned
to resolve the situation in a peaceful and sustainable manner.
“I am therefore delighted and honoured that you have kindly agreed to be my Special
Representative over the coming weeks, in order to remain in contact with key political
leaders and to encourage them towards an expeditious resolution of the impasse. I am
certain that your personal close interest can play a crucial role in building the necessary
political bridges.”
He further commended Jonathan for his successful leadership of the COG, saying that he
brought his rare experience to bear on the challenging mission. Sharma said further: “I
am writing to thank you once again for rendering the Commonwealth such distinguished
service through your generous personal commitment of time and your Leadership of the
Commonwealth Observer Group to last week’s elections in the United Republic of
Tanzania.