Statement by Johnnie Carson, Assistant Secretary of State Bu

Zanzibar Power-Sharing Referendum August 2, 2010 On behalf of Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and the Department of State, I extend my congratulations to the people of Zanzibar, who on July 31 peacefully and successfully conducted a referendum on power-sharing. Zanzibaris have wisely chosen to move beyond bitter divisions to build a new Zanzibar founded on a peaceful, just, and inclusive political system. The referendum represents the culmination of a difficult reconciliation process. The United States joined other friends of Tanzania in supporting the process, but it was Zanzibari leaders and legislators from the isles’ two main political parties, the Zanzibar Electoral Commission, civil society, political parties, religious leaders and the people of Zanzibar who made it succeed. The achievement of the Zanzibari people in adopting pragmatic solutions to longstanding problems sets a powerful example to others around the world facing seemingly intractable and divisive challenges. The people of Zanzibar now have an opportunity to build on this historic achievement as they approach General Elections in October. As Zanzibaris continue to choose the rule of law and peaceful political participation over division and violence, they can count on the support of the American people.

As received – Bostoki