Member of Parliament for Nkenge Constituency receiving a gift from residents of Kashenye Ward, in Misenyi District, Kagera Region. Photo courtesy of Bukoba Wadau.
In Tanzania's bustling political landscape, a contentious discussion has emerged regarding the electorate's comprehension of the duties of lawmakers within the government. This lack of understanding has intensified tensions as the nation prepares for imminent local government and general elections. While incumbent Members of Parliament (MPs) endeavor to secure their seats, those ousted in the 2020 elections are vying for a comeback, alleging electoral misconduct.
Recent events have shed light on the perplexity surrounding MPs' responsibilities, exacerbated by political maneuvering and pre-election tactics. Instances of MPs doling out cash, and gifts, and making lofty promises of development projects have ignited controversy, prompting citizens to question the appropriateness of such actions within the confines of parliamentary obligations.
Nkenge MP Florent Kyombo (not in the picture) handed over a photocopy machine to Kilimilile Ward at Mabale Primary School in Missenyi District, Kagera Region. Photo courtesy.
Deogratias Mmao, a teacher from Karatu District, voices the prevailing skepticism within Tanzanian society, denouncing politicians' cash distributions near elections as deceptive ploys to exploit impoverished citizens. He criticizes the government's failure to address entrenched poverty and lack of support, citing initiatives like "stop-center clinics" and youth motorcycle distributions as thinly veiled attempts to court favor with voters rather than fulfill genuine governmental duties.
The confusion deepens as citizens grapple with the roles outlined for MPs in the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania. Article 63-(1) establishes the President's parliamentary authority, while Article 17(3) empowers the National Assembly to oversee government functions, question ministers, and enact laws. However, widespread ignorance persists regarding these constitutional mandates, leaving citizens vulnerable to political exploitation.
Analysts warn that the dearth of civic education and political literacy perpetuates misinformation and enables the manipulation of voters by political actors. The gaping chasm between citizens' expectations and parliamentary realities further obscures the political landscape, fostering an environment ripe for exploitation and disillusionment.
In a tumultuous backdrop, animosity brews among MPs who lost their seats in the 2020 elections, many of whom seek redemption amidst allegations of electoral rigging. Conflicts unveil indications that the 2020 elections may have been marred by manipulation, with accusations leveled against the former head of state for orchestrating an outcome favoring a single-party parliament.
Tensions within the ruling party simmer as some MPs, who secured victories through primary elections, fear arbitrary dismissal by the head of state, leaving them marginalized. The practice of endorsing preferred candidates by the head of state gains momentum, evidenced by President Magufuli's public support for Bishop Gwajima's candidacy in the Kawe constituency, despite Gwajima's lack of popularity in primary elections.
Similar situations arose in constituencies like Igunga, where Henry Kabeo found himself disqualified despite securing a resounding victory against Nicholas George Ngasa. However, analysts and observers question whether the roles of MPs are truly understood, especially amidst accusations from incumbents that aspiring candidates are encroaching on their territories.
Deputy Chairman of CCM, Abdulrahman Kinana, has severally warned against clandestine campaigning, asserting that strict party laws will oust violators in the future, as the party's intelligence is vigilant in monitoring rule-breakers.
Analysts and observers cast doubt on whether MPs' roles are truly understood, amidst accusations of territorial encroachment by aspiring candidates, prompting warnings from party leaders against clandestine campaigning.
Meanwhile, voters clamor for the fulfillment of promises, often compelling MPs to dip into their coffers to sway support before elections. In Kagera, MP for Nkenge, Florent Kyombo, garners praise for extensive development efforts, yet finds himself embroiled in a feud with incumbent MP Asumpta Mshama, who aims for reelection. Kyombo accuses Mshama and others of attempting to "personalize" his seat, underscoring differing voter expectations in Kagera, where constituents greet their MP with gifts ranging from chicken to cattle.
However, the practice of MPs receiving gifts and accolades, akin to saviors, raises suspicions of vote-buying, further muddling the electoral landscape. While the culture of gifting MPs persists, it is crucial to note that MPs' responsibilities, as outlined in the constitution, do not encompass promises of infrastructure development or direct provision of services, as these tasks remain within the purview of government institutions.
The message from the Busanda constituency MP has circulated on Twitter, warning potential rivals against encroaching on their territories and urging them to wait for the right time.
These threatening remarks are exacerbated by party leaders' statements expressing displeasure with internal competition within the Revolutionary Party, accusing some of campaigning prematurely and against party regulations. Voters, on the other hand, demand the fulfillment of numerous promises, often prompting MPs to dip into their pockets to persuade them before elections.
As Tanzania gears up for elections, there's a pressing need for heightened civic education to combat electoral manipulation and ensure transparency in governance. Despite historical neglect, the role of MPs in Tanzania remains crucial, with the Bunge holding broad constitutional authority.
Recent shifts towards parliamentary oversight signify progress, as the Parliament endeavors to assert its authority vis-à-vis the executive. Scholars like Joel Barkan note a trend toward parliaments evolving into effective watchdogs and policymakers. However, to fully realize its potential, Tanzania's Parliament requires institutionalization and autonomy, particularly in budgetary matters.
As UNDP's Baffour Agyeman Duah highlights, this entails adequate capital, physical, and human resources. Enhanced autonomy may bolster the Parliament's effectiveness, fostering trust and confidence among Tanzanians. The stalled Constitutional Review process could offer an opportunity to consolidate parliamentary powers, further institutionalizing it within democratic principles. In essence, strengthening the Parliament's role is pivotal for Tanzania's democratic evolution and governance accountability.
