Written question asked by Lord Alderdice (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Triesman (Labour) on Thursday, 3 November 2005.

Tanzania and Zanzibar

Question: What representations they have made to the government of Tanzania about the recent reports of violence and intimidation of opposition parties in Zanzibar in the run up to the elections on 30 October.

Answer: Along with other members of the international community, we have been working very hard with President Mkapa, Presidential candidate Kikwete, President Karume and all concerned, to put their personal authority behind a process that would result in a free and fair election on 30 October. I visited Zanzibar in June and made clear to President Karume and the opposition that a peaceful and successful electoral process was central to Zanzibar’s future stability and prosperity.I wrote to President Mkapa on 24 October setting out my concerns regarding recent reports of violence and intimidation on Zanzibar. As presidency of the EU, the UK has most recently made representations to the Tanzanian Government, regarding the Foreign and Commonwealth Office has asked Chris Mullin MP, former Minister for Africa, to go to Zanzibar and observe proceedings as its special envoy.

Secondary information