John Okello

Zanzibaran revolutionary

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July 1, 2026

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John Okello was a revolutionary leader who played a key role in the Zanzibar Revolution of January 1964. Although he was described as a "communist-trained field marshal," the revolution, carried out by about 600 armed men under his leadership, gained significant support from the African population. This uprising led to the overthrow of the sultanate and the deposition of Sultan Sayyid Jamshid ibn Abdullah.

Following the revolution, Zanzibar was proclaimed a republic, with Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume installed as president. The revolution resulted in violence against the Arab population, with thousands massacred and many more fleeing the island. The new government implemented measures such as the nationalization of all land. In April 1964, Zanzibar joined with Tanganyika to form the United Republic of Tanzania.12

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…of the communist-trained “field marshal” John Okello, it won considerable support from the African population. Thousands of Arabs were massacred in riots, and thousands more fled the island. Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume, leader of the ASP, was installed as president of the People’s Republic of Zanzibar and Pemba. Sheikh Abdulla…
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…of the communist-trained “field marshal” John Okello, it won considerable support from the African population. Thousands of Arabs were massacred in riots, and thousands more fled the island. Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume, leader of the ASP, was installed as president of the People’s Republic of Zanzibar and Pemba. Sheikh Abdulla…
Read More