The history of appointing deputy prime ministers in Tanzania has been marked by inconsistency, lack of transparency and gender bias. The frequent reshuffling of government positions has led to a lack of continuity and stability in the role of the deputy prime minister.
One example of this inconsistency is seen in the number of deputy prime ministers appointed over the years. In some administrations, there have been multiple deputy prime ministers appointed, while in others there have been none. This lack of consistency raises questions about the necessity and effectiveness of the role.
The appointment process itself has also been criticized for its lack of transparency. In many instances, deputy prime ministers have been appointed without a clear explanation or justification for their selection. This lack of transparency raises concerns about the criteria used for appointment and whether political considerations rather than qualifications or experience are the main factor.
The role and responsibilities of the deputy prime minister are not clearly defined in Tanzania’s constitution or laws. A similar scenario is presented on a report from the Parliament of the United Kingdom’s memorandum discussing the position of the deputy prime minister. According to the report there was “no set or binding role for the Deputy Prime Minister within the British constitution”. Neither can this be found within the Tanzanian context.
The lack of clarity, on the appointment of deputy premier, has led to confusion and a lack of clear expectations for the position. The unconstitutional aspect of this kind of an appointment could be an active ingredient having the potential for facilitating abuse of power, as there are no clear checks and balances for the deputy prime minister’s role.
Strategic or a Pitfall
The Appointment of deputy Prime Ministers is not new in Tanzania. In the political memory lane, Tanzania records two previous deputy premier appointments. In these previous appointments, Dr. Salim Ahmed Salim headed the portfolio from 1986 to 1989, followed by the late Augustine Lyatonga Mrema who held the position from 1993 to 1994.
In both previous appointments, there was a political or governance issue that needed to be addressed. In his deputy prime minister tenure, Dr. Salim Ahmed Salim is said to have “played an important role in major constitutional reforms both in Tanzania and Zanzibar”. For Augustine Mrema, it was an issue of merit having ‘outperformed’ himself while in the Minister of Home Affairs. With the above, it would seem normal when the news went off with the appointment of Dr. Dotto Biteko in the deputy prime minister’s docket. But we need to critically ask, is the appointment normal?
Well, this could be normal. However, let us think about this from a different angle. Tanzania’s current Presidency was a default predicament. A constitutional one. This being the case, we have to take ourselves back to the issue of acceptance within party ranks. As emotively charged as it may appear, the reality is, earlier on in her Presidency, Ndg. Samia Suluhu faced acceptance issues. This could be traced back to a part of one of her speeches where she said “I am the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, with a female body (YouTube Clip from 10.55 – 11.50 minutes).
As we have reflected on previously, deputy prime ministers in Tanzania have important, and to a greater extent, a special sociopolitical and economic implications. The appointment process and criteria used can have a significant impact on power dynamics and political stability within the country.
Politically, the appointment of Dr. Biteko to the deputy premier portfolio may reflect the power dynamics and influence of different factions or individuals within the ruling party. The selection of deputy prime ministers can be seen as a way to balance competing interests or to reward loyal allies, which can have implications for political cohesion and the ability to implement effective policies.
Economically, the role of the deputy prime minister can also impact policy implementation and economic development. Depending on their portfolio, deputy prime minister in Tanzania may have oversight over key sectors. This is clearly evidenced in the appointment of the late Mrema. Even though Dr. Biteko’s appointment comes at a time he has displayed ‘prowess’ in overseeing the running of the Mining Sector’s portfolio, the additional deputy premier clout offers him a greater leverage in decision-making. He now has stronger political teeth to bite. This additional power gives him a latitude to make decisions and take actions with a direct impact on economic policies and processes. The areas of budget allocations, investment decisions, or infrastructure development not excepted.
Expected Political Milestones
Appointing a male Deputy Prime Minister allows President Samia Suluhu to consolidate her power and influence within the ruling party and government. By selecting a loyal and capable individual for this position such as Dr. Dotto Biteko, she can strengthen her support base and ensure a smoother implementation of her policies. This appointment provides a sense of continuity and stability within the government, especially in the event of the President’s absence, or inability to fulfill her duties. This helps to maintain political stability and ensures that important decisions and actions can be carried out effectively.
With the 2025 general elections in the near horizon, this appointment is politically strategic. This move allows President Samia Suluhu to reward and manage her political allies. By giving them a prominent position within the government, she can maintain their support and loyalty, which is crucial for a successful first actual election to the Presidency. There is also something that we do not want to talk about, the prevailing sense of possible revolt of ‘Chato boys.’ By selecting someone from a different a region that still holds the late Dr. Magufuli at heart could play a pivotal role in improving President Samia Suluhu’s image and build broader support among various segments of potential voters to her benefit in the next general elections.
While appointing a Deputy Prime Minister before the 2025 general elections could have potential political benefits for President Samia Suluhu, there are also disadvantages to consider, particularly in a male-dominated and politically contentious environment such as Tanzania. These disadvantages include gender bias, political opposition, lack of support from male-dominated institutions, societal prejudices and stereotypes, limited influence and decision-making power, and cultural and traditional barriers. These factors may pose challenges to the effectiveness and success of a female Deputy Prime Minister in such a context.
