An Examination of Political Parties' Contribution to the Government of National Unity in Zanzibar:

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to assess the political parties' contribution to the government of national unity in Tanzania. Specifically, the focus of this study was to explore the influence of political parties in crisis management at the government of national unity, to appraise the strength and representation of political parties forming the government of national unity, and to examine the division of power of representative political parties in the government of national unity in Zanzibar. A descriptive cross-sectional approach was used to make such an assessment. The respondents were determined after the saturation point, were selected by using non-probability techniques. The data for the study was collected through questionnaires and documentary review methods. The results show that the existence of a unity committee, facilitation of decision-making, coordination and collaboration had an impact on the government of national unity. On the other hand, equal representation of political parties, expertise in political parties in crisis management, and fair contribution to the government played major roles in the national unity government of Zanzibar. However, meeting sessions, access to the right facilities, and the participation of minority political parties had an impact on the national unity government. The study recommends that parties have to be willing to form national unit governments to minimize crises and loss of life for innocent citizens. Further research can be done on the challenges facing national unity governments across Africa.