Zanzibar’s First VP urges ZLS to champion citizens’ rights

Unguja. Zanzibar’s First Vice President, Othman Masoud Othman, has reiterated that the Bar Association should serve as a refuge for citizens when their rights are violated and should be at the forefront of voicing public concerns.

Mr. Othman made these remarks during the opening of the Annual General Meeting of the Zanzibar Law Society (ZLS) over the weekend, which aimed, among other things, to conduct elections for various leaders within the organization.

As a lawyer and former Attorney General of Zanzibar, Mr. Othman emphasized that the Association has a dual responsibility: not only to speak out when citizens’ rights are infringed but also to take appropriate action against those who violate these rights. He indicated that the Association should act as the primary guardian of the Constitution, the justice delivery system, the rule of law, and democracy.

“We are approaching the General Elections of 2025. While voting will occur next year, the election process will begin even earlier. Dear lawyers, this election is not about a political party or merely deciding political issues; it is the People’s Court, where citizens can determine the fate of their country,” said Mr. Othman.

He urged them to provide civic education to the public, enabling citizens to understand their rights and responsibilities in all necessary steps of the electoral process.

Mr Othman also reminded the lawyers that they have a duty to protect civil rights, particularly in managing cases that are of public interest. He asserted that it is both inappropriate and contrary to their obligations when civil rights are at risk, whether due to the actions of those in power or business interests. The Association must not remain silent but should fulfill its duty to advocate for the public.

He urged lawyers to continue their education to enhance their skills and effectiveness in addressing changes in science and technology, economic conditions, social dynamics, and emerging criminal incidents that are not widely reported in the country.

Furthermore, Mr. Othman encouraged the lawyers to leverage their significant positions to contribute to social and economic development through sound legal advice, ensuring that agreements and contracts comply with the law to avoid disputes.

In discussing the Blue Economy, the Vice President highlighted numerous opportunities, particularly in the oil and natural gas sectors, as well as in transportation and air freight. He urged lawyers to pursue these opportunities actively and to learn how to benefit from them.

However, he also reminded lawyers to uphold ethical standards and professionalism so that citizens can access their rights without hindrance.

The Minister of Constitutional Affairs, Public Service, and Good Governance, Haroun Ali Suleiman, noted that the Association has been a significant support to the government and emphasized that the government will continue to foster cooperation with the institution.

Meanwhile, the outgoing President of the Bar Association, Masoud Rukazibwa, mentioned that his association faces several challenges, including a shortage of resources, particularly in rural areas where legal services are still urgently needed.

He also expressed concern about government lawyers offering legal representation at low costs, which undermines the legal profession, especially since government lawyers should refrain from engaging in such practices.