Eighteen political parties in Zanzibar have signed the 2025 General Election Code of Ethics, but CHADEMA has boycotted the exercise, saying reforms are needed before credible elections can be held.

The signing took place at the Zanzibar Electoral Commission (ZEC) offices in Maisara on Sunday August 24, marking the official start of the election process ahead of the October 28–29 polls. Parties that signed include CCM, ACT-Wazalendo, CUF, NCCR-Mageuzi, CHAUMMA, and 13 others.

ZEC chairperson, Judge George Joseph Kazi, said the Code is intended to ensure accountability and peaceful campaigns. “The goal is to have a democratic and credible election for the citizens,” he noted.

CHADEMA however maintained its position of “No Reforms, No Election.” In a statement signed by Hamad Mussa Yussuf, Head of Publicity and Communications, the party said, “Hakuna Marekebisho, Hakuna Uchaguzi.”

The statement further noted that “the document signed today is cosmetic and aims to legitimize a flawed process,” pointing to past elections marked by violence, fraud and lack of accountability.

According to CHADEMA, elections cannot be free or fair without first carrying out Electoral Reforms to strengthen the Zanzibar Electoral Commission (ZEC) and restore public trust.