Decentralization by devolution policy in tanzania: Does devolution policy improved political accountability?

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine how decentralization by devolution policy improved situation of political accountability in governance system in Tanzania for a decade ago. The study conducted in the mainland Tanzania where by three regions of Mwanza, Geita and Kagera were involved in the study. Qualitative method and approaches were used to generate qualitative data from individual interviews involving Village chairpersons, Councilors, and Members of Parliament. Relevant different existing documents were critically reviewed and adopted. The sample size and the selection procedure of the key informants were purposively done, and snowball quota sampling was employed to reach the key study informants. A total of thirty (30) participants were carefully selected to participate in the study. The findings show that decentralization by devolution policy appeared to create awareness of accountability practice amongst politically elected leaders, even though it has not yet improved accountability practice in governance systems. Therefore, the study commends the overhaul of political accountability system in decentralized governance operations, this will help the government to restructure and reinforce implementation of political accountability.