Up to the 2010 general election, CUF enjoyed a position as the major opposition party thanks to its political influence in Zanzibar while struggling somewhat in the Mainland, while Chadema has gained popularity on the Mainland but its influence in the Isles has remained sporadic, in like manner as the NCCR-Mageuzi, for both areas.
"Huyo ni Mandela wa Afrika Mashariki na Kati, hakutaka kung'ang'ani madaraka, aliheshimu umri wake na kuamua kumpisha mgombea kijana, ni kama Mandela aliyekaa gerezani kwa miaka 27 na madarakani kwa kipindi kifupi akijiondoa," alisema Mwenyekiti huyo wa UVCCM.