Tanzanian MPs Spearhead Drive for New Constituencies as Transparency Demands Rise

By Adonis Byemelwa

As Parliamentary deliberations on the 2024/2025 budget commence today, April 2nd, in Dodoma, Tanzania, the issue of demarcating new constituencies has taken center stage, sparking intense scrutiny and debate within the nation's political landscape.

This crucial topic resurfaced during recent Parliamentary sessions, highlighting concerns raised by Members of Parliament (MPs) regarding the delineation of constituencies and the government's strategy for identifying new ones.

Joseph Kakunda, the MP for Sikonge, drew attention to the existence of large constituencies like Sikonge, underscoring the need for a comprehensive plan for constituency division. His remarks echoed sentiments expressed in district and regional meetings, reflecting widespread apprehension about the lack of clarity regarding this matter.

However, Speaker of the Parliament, Dr. Tulia Ackson, provided clarification, emphasizing that alongside large constituencies, smaller ones also exist. Ackson underscored that the constituency division falls outside the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Local Government (PO-RA-LG) and urged the government to provide clear answers or treat the issue as a primary question to ensure appropriate responses.

Meanwhile, Mwita Waitara, MP for Tarime Rural, raised another pertinent question about the government's timeline for announcing new administrative areas. In response, Deputy Minister of Local Government, Dr. Festo Dugange, outlined the procedural framework for establishing new administrative areas, emphasizing the current priority on infrastructure improvement in existing administrative areas.

As preparations for the next general elections unfold, discussions on constituency delineation and administrative area establishment remain pertinent. The National Electoral Commission's responsibility, as outlined in the Local Government Authorities Act (District Authorities) Chapter 287 and (City Authorities) Chapter 288, along with the 2014 Guidelines for the Establishment of Administrative Areas, highlights the significance of this issue in ensuring fair representation and effective governance.

The process involves meticulous consideration of various criteria, including population, communication infrastructure, geographical characteristics, economic status, and gender representation. Consultations with stakeholders, public announcements, and thorough analysis precede recommendations and publication in the Government Gazette.

Requests for constituency division or boundary adjustments follow a formal procedure involving submission to relevant authorities, review, and discussion before consideration by the National Electoral Commission. However, the proliferation of constituencies poses challenges such as strained resource allocation, fragmentation of representation, and administrative burdens, necessitating careful deliberation and strategic planning.

Against this backdrop, the controversy surrounding MP emoluments further underscores the need for transparency and accountability in Tanzania's political landscape. As citizens demand answers and accountability from their elected representatives, the Parliament faces mounting pressure to address legitimate concerns and rebuild public trust.

In a scathing critique delivered during one of his recent meetings, opposition leader Freeman Mbowe launched a blistering attack on the Tanzanian Parliament, accusing it of being increasingly preoccupied with self-serving agendas that neglect the plight of the impoverished majority.

Mbowe didn't mince words as he highlighted what he sees as a disturbing trend of MPs prioritizing personal enrichment schemes over addressing the pressing issue of poverty afflicting Tanzanians. Furthermore, Mbowe directed criticism towards former First Lady, Salma Kikwete, for advocating for spousal emoluments, adding fuel to his condemnation of what he perceives as a pervasive culture of self-serving politics.

Mbowe's condemnation goes beyond mere discussion of salary figures; it penetrates deep into the core of Tanzania's political ethos. He vehemently denounces politicians who seem more concerned with advancing their interests than serving the electorate they were elected to represent. By calling out the Parliament's fixation on personal enrichment and singling out prominent figures like Salma Kikwete, Mbowe sends a clear message that accountability and public service must take precedence over individual gain in Tanzania's political arena.

The debate surrounding MP emoluments serves as a stark reminder of the growing gap between the political elite and the average Tanzanian citizen. As the disparity between the highest-paid politicians and the rest of the populace widens, questions regarding leadership's understanding of the people's struggles become increasingly pertinent.

Historical context provides a striking juxtaposition to the current state of affairs. During the tenure of President Julius Nyerere, transparency and humility in leadership were held in high regard. Nyerere himself earned a modest salary, setting an example of servant leadership that resonated with the populace. However, in today's political landscape, such transparency appears to have waned, leaving citizens disillusioned and distrustful of their leaders.

The lack of transparency surrounding MP salaries has transformed this issue into a central point of contention in the lead-up to the next general elections. Voters are demanding greater accountability from their representatives and are wary of candidates perceived as prioritizing personal gain over public service.

The widening chasm between the highest and lowest earners in the public sector underlines a growing schism between the political elite and the citizens they purport to represent. While politicians enjoy lucrative salaries and benefits, many Tanzanians struggle to make ends meet, exacerbating social and economic inequalities.

As Tanzania braces for the forthcoming general elections, the debate surrounding MP emoluments is poised to take center stage in the national discourse. Citizens are demanding transparency, accountability, and a renewed commitment to serving the interests of the people above all else.

In response to mounting public pressure, the Parliament must address the legitimate concerns raised by citizens and provide clear and transparent information regarding MP salaries and benefits. Failure to do so risks further erosion of public trust and confidence in the political establishment.

The controversy surrounding MP emoluments serves as a wake-up call for Tanzania's political leadership. It underscores the urgent need for greater transparency, accountability, and a renewed focus on serving the best interests of the Tanzanian people.

The Tanzanian Parliament's handling of MP emoluments and constituency delineation reflects broader concerns over transparency. Citizens demand accountability, urging Parliament to demonstrate openness and integrity to rebuild trust. This dual challenge presents an opportunity to set a precedent for accountable governance. As discussions progress, Parliament's actions will be closely watched, serving as a litmus test for its commitment to the people's interests.