Effects of Political-Administration Dichotomy in Decision Making Process in Tanzania – A Case of Temeke Municipality

Abstract

The study assessed Effects of political- administration dichotomy in decision making process in Tanzania. A case of Temeke Municipality. The objectives were to analyze the relationship between politicians and administrators in the decision-making process in Temeke Municipality, to examine how stakeholder engagement affects decision-making in Temeke Municipality. The study used both primary and secondary data and mixed approaches of both Qualitative and quantitative methods in analyzing the effects of political administration dichotomy in decision making process in Tanzania. This study was comprised 191 respondents included comprise of all Councilors, Heads of departments, WEO’s, VEO’s, DED and all village chairmen. Data were collected through questionnaires, and interviews and analyzed by using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 27 and thematic analysis. The findings reveal that significant political pressures undermine the quality of decisions made by administrators, with respondents indicating that political influence often prioritizes agendas over objective analysis, leading to favoritism and delays in the decision-making process. Additionally, stakeholder engagement is shown to enhance decision-making quality and accountability, although many respondents’ express skepticism regarding the seriousness with which public feedback is integrated into governance. Furthermore, the research identifies that conflicts between political agendas and administrative priorities hinder effective decision-making, exacerbated by inadequate communication and the current political climate, which complicates the separation of roles between political leaders and bureaucrats. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the necessity of fostering collaboration between politicians and administrators to improve governance outcomes, advocating for the establishment of independent oversight bodies to monitor political influence, the implementation of training programs to enhance understanding of the political-administration dichotomy, and the promotion of transparent communication channels to clarify roles and responsibilities. By prioritizing evidence-based decision-making and stakeholder engagement, local governance in Temeke Municipality can be strengthened, ultimately serving the community's genuine needs and restoring public trust in governmental institutions.