Shein breaks with predecessors on Union Cabinet
membership
IN what is clearly a shift of opinion from his two immediate
predecessors, the President of Zanzibar, Dr Ali Mohammed Shein on Monday took
oath to become a member of the Union Cabinet.
The move demonstrated Dr Shein's commitment to work more
closely with the Union government.
Soon after the swearing-in ceremony, Dr Shein attended a
Cabinet meeting chaired by President Jakaya Kikwete at the State House in Dar es Salaam
A statement issued by the Directorate of Presidential
Communications said the swearing-in was in fulfillment of a constitutional
requirement, which provides that the President of Zanzibar should also be a
member of the Union Cabinet.
"This is in accordance with section 54 of the
Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania which names members of the
Cabinet as including Vice-President, Prime Minister, President of Zanzibar and
all the ministers," reads the statement.
Legal experts and political analysts have commented on the
move, commending the Zanzibar President for the respect he has shown to the
constitution.
The Attorney General, Justice Frederick Werema noted that Dr
Shein's decision was wise as it fulfills a constitutional requirement.
"Some of his predecessors did not take oath, thus they
never attended Cabinet meetings. But
Dr
Justice Werema confirmed that some former presidents of Zanzibar
"Unlike his father who was the first President of
Zanzibar, Amani Abeid Karume was never sworn-in as a member of the
Cabinet," he said.
Renowned lawyer and political analyst, Prof Issa Shivji said
Dr Shein's move was commendable as it fulfilled a clause in the constitution.
"This is a great stride. It demonstrates that Dr Shein
respects the constitution," he said.
Mr Thabit Abdulrahman, Secretary of RADEA (Rahaleo
Development Association), said Dr Shein's oath was symbol of respect to the
constitution.
Source: Daily News
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