US envoy calls for calm after riots rock Zanzibar island

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (PANA) – US Ambassador in Tanzania, Alfonso E. Lenhardt, has added his voice to the many others who have called on all parties involved in the weekend unrest in Zanzibar to work together to maintain calm on the island.

“We recognize the importance of robust public debate and encourage all parties to proceed in a peaceful and democratic manner,” Lenhardt said Monday in a brief statement, urging political leaders in the East African off-coast island to address the issues that led to the burning of churches by Islam extremists in Zanzibar town.

“The situation that has occurred over the past two days risks tarnishing the image of Zanzibar's first peaceful and successful elections in 2010 that created the Government of National Unity.  

“Maintaining a peaceful environment in Zanzibar that allows for tourism and development is beneficial to all Zanzibari citizens and foreign visitors alike. Most importantly, we urge everyone to exercise restraint and protect the lives and property of innocent people,” he added.
-0- PANA AR/VAO 28May2012