Abstract

Zanzibar adopted a power-sharing in 2010 to solve the tumultuous electoral conflict that resulted in bloodshed and social upheaval. In a unique case, the adoption involves a referendum vote and a subsequent constitutional change. The aim was to make the arrangement reliable and stable for peace and democracy on the Island. The expectation, though, fades into obscurity. The public witnessed election violence in 2020, a 2016 election boycott, and various opposition party attempts to end power-sharing. The electoral conflict management theories hold that the institutional capacity to support free, fair, and transparent elections is necessary for managing electoral conflict in any society. This study examines the electoral institution's ability to control electoral conflict with power-sharing in Zanzibar. The study was conducted in Zanzibar and involved a documentary review and in-depth interviews data collection tool. The study found that the electoral institution under power-sharing still does not significantly build trust among the parties. The fairness of the electoral process continues to be demanded by the parties, specifically the opposition. As a result, demands accompanied by chaos and violence emerged. The case of Zanzibar compels a need to create an independent electoral system that operates with integrity, honesty and impartiality.

Key words: Power-sharing, election, electoral conflict, conflict management, institutions, electoral institution.