Tanzania: Controversial Conduct Of Paul Makonda In Public Office Raises Concerns

By Adonis Byemelwa

In a riveting turn of events, the political arena is buzzing with controversy as Paul Makonda, the Secretary of Ideology and Publicity for the ruling party, Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM), steps into uncharted territory.

His recent actions have ignited a fiery debate, with critics asserting that his role extends far beyond the conventional bounds of party responsibilities.

Makonda's conduct, characterized by high-profile interventions, has sparked debates over his interference in government affairs and his use of public resources.

Independent lawyer and activist Fatma Karume has taken issue with Paul Makonda, the Secretary of Ideology and Publicity for the ruling Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party.

Karume argues that Makonda is exceeding his mandate by questioning government leaders, citing Article 107 of the CCM constitution. According to this article, Makonda's responsibilities center on party issues, decisions, election matters, party organizations, and members.

Karume emphasizes that Makonda lacks the authority to interrogate government officials, pointing out the constitutional limitations specified in Article 107. She asserts that his role primarily involves ideology, party affairs, and organizational matters.

In response, John Mrema, the Chadema Director of Communications, Protocol, and Foreign Affairs, questions whether an opposition party spokesperson would have the opportunity to question a regional police commander as part of their duties to address public grievances and resolve issues affecting citizens.

Contrary to constitutional norms, Makonda has personally questioned police commanders about reported issues raised by citizens. His direct involvement in problem-solving includes compensating individuals facing various challenges, such as a physically challenged youth allegedly mistreated by a district director.

In a public gesture, Makonda handed the young man Tsh2,000,000, sparking debates about the appropriateness of such actions and their alignment with government protocols.

Critics argue that Makonda's interventions strip the government of its responsibilities, creating an impression of its incapability to address citizens' concerns. Some expressed skepticism about his ability to solve problems effectively, suggesting potential misuse of government resources on frequent trips—an anxiety shared by citizens who observed a government-registered convoy during one of his visits.

In another incident in Dodoma, while still in his official capacity, Makonda summoned the Regional Commissioner, Rosemary Senyamule, to explain public grievances. This unusual move, where Makonda paid the commissioner and urged her onto the stage, has raised eyebrows.

Critics view it as a display of authority beyond party roles, intensifying concerns about the blurred lines between party functions and government affairs.

Public opinion on Makonda's conduct is divided. While some commend his hands-on approach to addressing citizens' issues, others question the effectiveness of his interventions and their alignment with established government structures.

The perception that Makonda might be misusing public funds for his high-profile visits and interventions adds to the ongoing controversy surrounding his actions.

Paul Makonda's unconventional methods, extending beyond his party responsibilities, have sparked constitutional debates and raised concerns about the separation between party and government functions.

The controversy surrounding his actions continues to intensify, with critics questioning the overall impact on governance and public trust in the ruling party.

Rather than solving issues, critics argue that Makonda's actions convey a narrative of a government in disarray.

Despite the presence of various government officials in different regions, problems persist, and citizens feel their concerns are not adequately addressed.

During his gatherings with citizens, Makonda often labels them as 'the oppressed' and directs them to enumerate their problems.

Surprisingly, the citizens tend to point fingers at local leaders affiliated with the ruling party, such as District Commissioners and District Executive Directors, accusing them of causing their problems.

This has led some to question Makonda's impartiality and accuse him of using these sessions to target government officials aligned with opposition parties.

Makonda's approach of issuing directives on the spot, often giving government officials a few hours or days to address problems, has raised eyebrows.

Critics argue that this style undermines standard procedures and protocol, and it places undue pressure on officials to deliver immediate results.

While citizens may applaud the swift directives, the sustainability and long-term impact of these actions remain in question.

The expenditure associated with Makonda's extensive tours has also come under scrutiny. Some argue that the resources spent on these tours could be better utilized elsewhere.

Questions have been raised about the allocation of funds for travel and the tangible benefits derived from such high-profile visits.

Makonda's recent directives to the Minister of Local Government to suspend a District Executive Director have added another layer of complexity.

This move, initiated by Makonda after encountering numerous grievances in a particular district, has sparked internal debates within CCM.

Recently, the Secretary-General of CCM, Dr. Emmanuel Nchimbi cautioned against party leaders interfering with government officials, emphasizing the need for respect and professionalism.

While Makonda has been vocal in issuing directives and addressing local issues, CCM's Secretary-General seems to distance himself from the controversy.

Dr. Nchimbi stressed the importance of respecting government institutions and advised against leaders using their positions to belittle government officials.

The contrasting statements from top CCM officials indicate internal divisions regarding Makonda's style of leadership.

Makonda's recent installation as a traditional chief in Shinyanga has added another dimension to the controversy.

Some view this as an attempt to consolidate power and influence, while others argue that traditional chieftaincy should remain separate from political affiliations.

Makonda's recent directives to the Prime Minister, Kassim Majaliwa, to address land conflicts within six months have created a tense situation.

Critics argue that Makonda's interference in government affairs, particularly by giving ultimatums to high-ranking officials, challenges the established norms of collaboration between the party and the government.

Amidst the controversies, Makonda defended his actions, stating that the party has full confidence in Prime Minister Majaliwa's capability to address land conflicts.

He emphasized that the party aims to ensure the government fulfills its duties as outlined in the election manifesto.

The mixed reactions within CCM regarding Makonda's interventions have the potential to impact the party's image and unity.

The internal dynamics and conflicting statements from top leaders may lead to divisions and erode the public's confidence in the party's coherence.

Paul Makonda's unconventional approach to problem-solving and his assertive interventions in government affairs have sparked a wave of debates and criticisms.

The controversies surrounding his actions raise questions about the balance between party activities and government functions, ultimately impacting CCM's internal dynamics and public perception.