Maalim Seif, also known as Seif Sharif Hamad, was a prominent Tanzanian politician and a key figure in the Zanzibar political landscape. Born in 1943, he played a significant role in the formation of the Civic United Front (CUF), a political party that aimed to represent the interests of the people of Zanzibar. His leadership and advocacy for democracy made him a respected figure among his supporters. Throughout his career, Maalim Seif was known for his commitment to peaceful political processes and dialogue. He served as the opposition leader in the Zanzibar House of Representatives and was involved in various negotiations to resolve political tensions in the region. His contributions to Tanzanian politics were recognized both locally and internationally.