Legal framework of central-local government administrative relationship in mainland Tanzania: A paradox of local autonomy?

Abstract

This article examines the implication of the present legal framework of central-local government administrative relationship on the  autonomy of Local Government Authorities (LGAs) in Tanzania. The focus is on the power of LGAs over their personnel, fiscal matters and  their own priorities. Both primary and secondary data were collected and analyzed for the conclusions made in this article. It is argued in  the article that, despite the amendments which have been made in the constitution and in some other laws enacted by the Parliament; the current legal framework of central-local government administrative relationship is still fuzzy, centralistic and unsupportive of local  government autonomy. There is no provision in the Constitution on central-local government administrative relationship from which the  Parliament can proceed to enact a law to regulate such relationship. As a result, there are so many laws enacted by Parliament with  loopholes that give room to the central government to frequently meddle with the autonomy of LGAs in the exercise of their powers and in carrying out their statutory functions. It is therefore recommended that the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania, 1977  should be amended to provide for central-local government administrative relationship and a safeguard against central government  interference with local government autonomy.