ZANZIBAR, July 10 -- THE Joint Declaration and Action Agenda signed by Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) and ACT Wazalendo sets out an ambitious programme of political, constitutional and governance reforms aimed at strengthening reconciliation, democracy and lasting peace in Zanzibar.

Signed yesterday at the State House in Zanzibar, the declaration commits the two parties to sustained dialogue, institutional reforms and mechanisms for implementing agreed changes.

According to the declaration, the accord marks the beginning of the second phase of a reconciliation process aimed at resolving longstanding political differences through sustained dialogue, mutual trust and consensus-building.

Presenting the declaration, Zanzibar Chief Secretary and...