Security forces on the Islands of Zanzibar have clashed with supporters of the opposition Civic United Front, CUF. This, as the opposition says its preliminary count shows it with a substantial lead in the weekend’s presidential and parliamentary contests.

Opposition president candidate Seif Sharif Hamad told VOA reporter Shaka Ssali that he’s confident of victory, despite claims of fraud and irregularities in some areas of opposition strongholds.  The CUF is attempting to unseat the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi, CCM. But its flag bearer, incumbent president Amani Karume says he’s optimistic of continued success by his party.