In the dynamic world of politics, familiar faces and ideas often find their way back to the centre stage. This political ‘déjà vu’ moment recently reverberated in Tanzania with the appointment of Ndugu Paul Makonda, the former Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner, as the CCM ideology and publicity secretary. While the role is pivotal for stakeholder engagement, the public’s perceptions of it are fragmented.
Some Tanzanians worryingly infer that the ruling party is running dry on fresh ideological talents. Others perceive it as a strategic manoeuvre by President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan to tilt the 2025 general elections in her favour. A faction even suggests appeasements to Sukuma-land. Amid these varied interpretations, the silent academic community prompts a more profound, politically-informed analysis.
Political recycling is not about the environment; it’s about repackaging and reusing political ideas, strategies, or personas. It’s seen when protectionist policies, originally designed to defend domestic industries, regain favour. Or when populist movements, emphasizing the ordinary citizen’s voice, re-emerge, propelled by modern media.
Interestingly, this reincarnation extends to political figures, such as the Kennedy dynasty in the U.S., where generational leadership carries forth their enduring legacy.
Globally, this recycling act has its merits and demerits. It can ensure continuity, leveraging the wisdom of experienced statesmen. Conversely, constantly revolving around the same elites might breed stagnation and impede progress.
In many Third-World nations, this recycling brings back previous rulers, indicating a return to norm or rectification of past mistakes. Yet, it often paves the way for corruption, nepotism, and a repetition of ineffective policies. This can stifle genuine democratic growth and signify weak political institutions, dominated by personalities over principles.
Africa offers stark examples of political recycling’s implications. Zimbabwe’s transition from Robert Mugabe to his protégé, Emmerson Mnangagwa, bore an uncanny resemblance to the former’s rule. In Cameroon, Paul Biya’s long-standing rule since 1982 demonstrates the perils of recycling. Critics are either absorbed into his establishment or subdued, nullifying genuine democratic competition.
Such practices deny nations their political refreshment, perpetuating potentially outdated policies and curbing innovation. Paired with restricted civic spaces, they foster disillusionment among citizens, curtailing meaningful political contribution.
In Tanzania, this recycling trend isn’t new, and its nuances merit attention. The country’s political timeline reveals the return of retired political figures, valued for their vast experience and political networks. For instance, Dr. Philip Mpango, the former Minister for Finance and Planning, was designated Vice President under President Suluhu Hassan. Many figures, previously off the radar, revived in diplomatic roles, while others like Dr. Slaa and Ndg. David Kafulila entered opposition territories.
President Suluhu Hassan’s initiatives also echo this. The creation of a special committee on COVID-19 saw past professionals’ return, and the advisory roles often accommodated ex-ministers and leaders, like Ms. Sophia Simba advising on women and special groups.
Political recycling is a double-edged sword. While it harnesses experienced leaders’ insights, offering stability, it might also stymie innovation, leaving countries ill-equipped for novel challenges. In places with restrained civic engagement, like Zimbabwe and Cameroon, this practice can breed stagnation and autocracy.
For President Samia Suluhu, her leadership beyond 2025 hinges on her political strategies. While her past affiliations, like her vice-presidential tenure under Magufuli, may gain her trust, she needs to strike a balance. Overrelying on past leaders could cast shadows on her distinct vision for Tanzania’s future.
