Is statecraft declining in Tanzania?

A troubling wave of kidnappings, disappearances, homicides, ritual killings and extrajudicial violence have marred Tanzania’s sociopolitical landscape.

These incidents are not only a stark deviation from the nation’s post-independence ethos but also indicative of a deeper malaise: the decline of statecraft in a country once renowned for its sophisticated governance under the stewardship of its founding President, Julius Nyerere.

Nyerere, often referred to as Mwalimu (teacher), was more than just the first leader of Tanzania; he was the architect of a national identity rooted in unity, peace, and social justice.

His approach to statecraft was defined by a commitment to the welfare of the Tanzanian people, a vision of self-reliance, and an unwavering adherence to moral principles.

Under his leadership, the country became a beacon of hope for other African nations, symbolising the potential of post-colonial states to forge a path of dignified independence.

Today, however, Tanzania finds itself grappling with a series of crises that threaten the very fabric of its society, suggesting a significant erosion of the art of governance that once set it apart.

 A surge in insecurity

The rise in kidnappings, disappearances, and killings has sent shockwaves across the nation, raising questions about the state’s capacity to protect its citizens.

In a country where personal security was once taken for granted, these incidents have instilled a pervasive sense of fear and vulnerability.

Families are living in constant anxiety, unsure of what the next day might bring, while communities are torn apart by the loss of loved ones in mysterious and often brutal circumstances.

One of the most disconcerting aspects of this trend is the seeming impunity with which these crimes are committed.

Perpetrators, whether criminals or rogue elements within the security forces, operate with little fear of retribution.

This has led to a growing perception that the rule of law in Tanzania is weakening and that the state is either unable or unwilling to uphold its primary responsibility of ensuring the safety and security of its people.

 Ritual killings: a disturbing resurgence

Perhaps the most alarming manifestation of this decline in governance is the resurgence of ritual killings, particularly targeting vulnerable groups such as albinos, women, and children.

These heinous acts, often driven by superstitious beliefs in the use of human body parts for wealth or power, reflect a breakdown in societal norms and a failure of the state to effectively combat deeply entrenched cultural practices that violate human rights.

The persistence of ritual killings in Tanzania is a stark reminder that statecraft is not just about managing the political and economic affairs of a country; it is also about shaping the moral and ethical landscape of society.

During Nyerere’s era, such practices were condemned in the strongest terms, and efforts were made to educate the public and eradicate these harmful beliefs.

Today, however, the state appears to be struggling to exert the same level of influence, allowing these practices to continue unabated in some regions.

 Extrajudicial killings and the erosion of accountability

The issue of extrajudicial killings by law enforcement officers is another critical indicator of the decline in statecraft in Tanzania.

Reports of police brutality, summary executions, and other forms of violence perpetrated by those who are supposed to uphold the law have become increasingly common.

These actions not only violate the fundamental rights of individuals but also undermine public trust in the institutions of the state.

In a well-functioning democracy, law enforcement agencies are accountable to the public and operate within a framework of checks and balances that prevent abuses of power.

However, in Tanzania, the lines between law enforcement and lawlessness have become blurred, with some officers taking the law into their own hands and acting with impunity.

This has created an environment where the very institutions designed to protect citizens are instead instilling fear and perpetuating violence.

The erosion of accountability within the security forces is symptomatic of a broader decline in governance.

It points to a weakening of the institutions and mechanisms that ensure the rule of law and protect human rights.

Without robust oversight and a commitment to upholding justice, the state loses its legitimacy and the confidence of its citizens.

 The decline of statesmanship

Beyond the immediate security concerns, the current situation in Tanzania reflects a deeper decline in the quality of statesmanship.

Mwl Nyerere’s leadership was characterised by a commitment to dialogue, consensus-building, and the pursuit of the common good.

He understood that statecraft was not just about wielding power but about using that power to serve the people and build a just and equitable society.

Today, however, there is a growing perception that the art of governance in Tanzania has been reduced to a mere exercise of authority, often for the benefit of a few rather than the collective.

The emphasis on state security and control has overshadowed the need for inclusivity, transparency, and accountability.

This has led to a disconnect between the state and the people, eroding the social contract that is essential for effective governance.

The lack of statesmanship is evident in the way the government responds to crises.

Instead of addressing the root causes of the issues facing the country, there is a tendency to resort to heavy-handed tactics that further alienate the populace or dismiss lawlessness and its results as mere ‘drama’.

This approach not only fails to resolve the underlying problems but also exacerbates the sense of disillusionment and mistrust among citizens.

Addressing the decline in statecraft requires a concerted effort to restore the principles of good governance that once defined the nation.

It also requires a renewed commitment to dialogue and consensus-building, particularly in addressing the root causes of insecurity and violence.

The state must engage with communities, civil society, and other stakeholders to develop strategies that not only address the symptoms of these issues but also tackle their underlying drivers, such as poverty, inequality, and social exclusion.

Finally, there is a need for a new generation of leaders who are committed to upholding the values of statesmanship and statecraft that Mwl Nyerere espoused.

These leaders must be willing to put the interests of the nation above their own, to listen to the concerns of the people, and to work tirelessly to build a Tanzania that is safe, just, and prosperous for all.