FOR THE RECORD: Jonathan To Mediate In Zanzibar Poll

Goodluck Jonathan observed the election which saw John Magufuli become Tanzania's president (Image credits: Getty Images; Image source: BBC)

The Commonwealth has appointed ex-President Goodluck Jonathan to lead the resolution of the political stalemate in Zanzibar. His appointment as the Commonwealth special representative is seen as an affirmation of his towering status as the moral face of democracy and transparent polling in Africa.

The appointment was conveyed to him last week in a letter by the Commonwealth Secretary- General, Mr. Kamalesh Sharma.

It followed his leadership of the Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) to last month’s Tanzania general election.

The Nation report continues:

After the October 25 poll, which produced John Magufuli as the president, the Jonathan-led COG and other international observers endorsed the polling processes as credible.

Jonathan is drafted to quell the tension brewing in Zanzibar, following the nullification of the presidential election results by the electoral body, over alleged irregularities.

International observers disputed the decision on the grounds that the voting and counting were held in a peaceful atmosphere.

In the letter, which Sharma signed, he wrote: “As you are aware, the Zanzibar electoral situation remains unsolved, although recent reports indicating willingness by the main parties to engage in talking are 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 encourage all concerned to resolve the situation in a peaceful and sustainable manner.

“I’m, therefore, delighted and honoured that you have agreed to be my special representative in the coming weeks, to remain in contact with key political leaders and encourage them towards an expeditious resolution of the impasse.

“I am certain that your interest can play a role in building political bridges.”

He hailed Jonathan for his leadership of the COG, saying he brought his experience to bear on the mission.

Sharma said: “I am writing to thank you once again for rendering the Commonwealth service through your generous commitment of time and your leadership of the Commonwealth Observer Group to last week’s elections in Tanzania. This has proved to be a challenging mission. Your experience and guidance have been of immeasurable value.”

Jonathan, according to sources, has set about the mission by engaging stakeholders in the disputed election.

It was learnt that talks will be held in the coming weeks under Jonathan’s chairmanship, who is expected to bring the parties together to find a solution.