DHIMA ZA MITINDO YA LUGHA KATIKA MIJADALA YA BARAZA LA WAWAKILISHI LA ZANZIBAR
Keywords:
Language styles, Zanzibar House of Representatives, Theory of Language Functions, Political Communication, SociolinguisticsAbstract
This article examined the functions of language styles in the debates of the Zanzibar House of Representatives (BLW). The objective of the article was to analyze the functions of language styles used in the debates of the BLW. The study was guided by the Theory of Language Functions established by [1], which explains that language functions as a social, psychological, and cognitive tool in legitimizing/legitimize authority and shaping relationships.The study employed the questionnaire method, with questionnaires used as instruments for data collection. Data analysis adopted an interpretive approach involving textual analysis of twelve (12)
official Hansard records of parliamentary debates. In addition, the study involved a sample of twenty (20) participants, including ten (10) members of the House of Representatives and ten (10) Hansard writers. Members of the House of Representatives were selected because they are the primary users of language in parliamentary debates, while Hansard writers were selected because they are custodians of the debate transcripts. The findings of the study revealed that language use in the BLW is categorized into four major language styles, each serving a specific function in the conduct of parliamentary activities. The frozen style
functions to strengthen national identity and legitimize legal procedures through repetitive formal expressions. The formal style maintains protocol, respect, and the legitimacy of governmental decisions through the use of legal and constitutional vocabulary. Meanwhile, the consultative style promotes institutional cooperation and public participation in policy-making processes. Lastly, the casual style is used to simplify the understanding of complex arguments, build social closeness, and reduce tension in debates through humor and figurative expressions. The article recommends that balance and proper integration of these language styles are essential tools for enhancing political communication and improving the effectiveness of this constitutional institution.
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