The former president of the United Republic of Tanzania, the late Dr. John Pombe Magufuli was a leader like any other but with qualities that earned him the nickname “the Bulldozer!”. At best, he was human like any of us. Prone to make mistakes.
With interest, I have embarked on analysing the legacy he has left behind. To be frank, a close look at his leadership, there seem to be glaring misreading of how he became the person he was, at a personal level and as a statesman occupying plot number 1 in Tanzania – the State House. On this piece, I am attempting to look at the driving factors behind his attitudes and policies towards women and their role in political spaces. This is a complex and multifaceted task.
The late Magufuli’s presidency, marked by various actions and statements, stirred significant debate over his approach to gender issues and the broader implications for women in political and public spheres. Here, we critically examine these aspects. Initially, Magufuli’s ascent to the presidency in 2015 ignited hopes for progressive governance. His reputation as a no-nonsense leader fighting corruption raised expectations among various groups, including women, who hoped for increased representation and attention to gender-specific issues.
One of the notable aspects of Magufuli’s tenure was his appointment of women to key positions. For example, the appointment of the first female vice president, Samia Suluhu Hassan, was seen as a progressive step. Moreover, his government had a significant number of women in ministerial and other high-ranking positions. However, the effectiveness and autonomy of these positions under his leadership have been a point of debate. Critics argue that despite these appointments, the broader patriarchal structures and attitudes within the political system remained largely unchallenged.
Controversially, Magufuli made several public statements regarding women that sparked debate and criticism. His comments suggesting that his wife’s place was ‘in the kitchen’ were perceived as reinforcing patriarchal norms and diminishing the role of women in public and political life. Such statements, often made in jest, were seen as reflective of deeper, more traditional views on gender roles, which could potentially undermine the progress and empowerment of women.
Under Magufuli’s leadership, there were concerns about the overall environment for women’s political participation. While formal representation in government saw an increase, the actual empowerment and voice of women in political decision-making were questioned. The patriarchal undertones in some of Magufuli’s rhetoric may have contributed to a culture that was less conducive to female political agency and leadership.
His leadership style and statements often reflected traditional views on gender roles, which could undermine the empowerment and agency of women in politics. While his administration made strides in appointing women to high positions, the broader cultural and political implications of his tenure for women’s empowerment remain a subject of critical examination and debate.
In the foregoing, a critical analysis is needed. To do so one must venture into critical analysis of the psycho-political attitudes surrounding the appointment of women in political positions in Tanzania and in Africa. And perhaps the majority of ‘post-colonial’ environments. In particular, in cases where women are not allowed to exercise power and make critical decisions, we can consider the example of the then vice President and now the President of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan. Her tenure as Vice President under President Magufuli’s administration is an emblematic case study.
Magufuli, known for his assertive and sometimes authoritarian leadership style, often overshadowed Suluhu’s role in governance. Despite being in a high-ranking position, Suluhu’s influence and decision-making powers were perceived to be limited. This exemplifies a broader trend in African politics where women, despite holding significant titles, are often relegated to symbolic roles without substantial political power.
The psycho-political attitudes towards women in power in Africa stem from deep-rooted patriarchal norms. These norms often dictate that women should not hold positions of authority or decision-making power, especially in political spheres. This attitude not only undermines the capabilities of women leaders but also hampers the progress towards gender equality in governance.
Even though the appointment of Suluhu as Vice President was initially hailed as a progressive step towards gender inclusivity in Tanzanian politics. However, the limitations placed on her role illustrate a common practice in African politics: appointing women to high-profile positions without granting them real authority or decision-making power. This practice perpetuates the stereotype that women are less capable leaders, contributing to a cycle of gender inequality in political leadership.
Another analytical perspective must consider gender roles. The latter is deeply ingrained in societal norms, have a profound impact on the political landscape. Traditional views, which often relegate women to domestic or secondary roles, can significantly hinder their political empowerment and agency. This effect is evident in various countries, each presenting unique cases for study.
Rwanda presents a contrasting scenario. The country is noted for having one of the highest rates of female parliamentary representation in the world. This achievement is partly attributed to deliberate policies promoting gender equality, challenging traditional norms. Rwanda’s success demonstrates how altering societal perceptions of gender roles can significantly enhance women’s political empowerment.
Globally, the scenario varies. In Scandinavian countries, for example, gender equality is more deeply ingrained in societal norms, leading to greater female participation in politics. Conversely, in more patriarchal societies, such as in certain Middle Eastern countries, traditional views significantly limit women’s political roles.
The examples from Tanzania and Rwanda, juxtaposed with global cases, underscore a crucial point: the persistence of traditional gender norms serves as a barrier to women’s full participation and leadership in politics. While formal representation (as seen in Tanzania) is essential, it must be coupled with a shift in societal attitudes to translate into genuine empowerment.
The factors above necessitate the need to establish a foundation for women to participate effectively and meaningfully in political spaces, especially within historically patriarchal contexts. This requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both systemic barriers and societal attitudes. This critical analysis draws upon various scholarly sources to outline key strategies and challenges in this endeavour.
Firstly, education and empowerment are fundamental. Studies have shown that increasing women’s access to education and political training significantly enhances their political participation. Educational programs need to focus not only on general literacy but also on civic education, which equips women with knowledge about their political rights and the workings of political systems.
Secondly, legal and policy reforms are essential. Quotas and affirmative action are effective tools in increasing women’s political representation, as seen in Rwanda, where such measures have led to one of the highest rates of women’s parliamentary representation globally. However, these measures must be accompanied by supportive policies that address other forms of discrimination and barriers to entry.
Thirdly, challenging societal norms and cultural perceptions about gender roles is crucial. Patriarchal attitudes that view women as less capable or unsuitable for leadership roles continue to be significant barriers. Public awareness campaigns and the promotion of positive role models are necessary to change these perceptions.
However, the path is fraught with challenges. Resistance to change, especially in deeply entrenched patriarchal societies, can lead to backlash against women who enter politics, often manifested in gender-based violence and harassment. Therefore, a holistic approach that includes legal protection and psychological support for women in politics is essential.
Traditional views on gender roles can significantly undermine the empowerment and agency of women in politics. The contrast between Tanzania and Rwanda, along with insights from other countries, demonstrates the need for a cultural shift alongside policy changes to ensure women’s equal participation in the political arena. Overcoming these traditional barriers is crucial for achieving genuine gender equality in politics. Effective and meaningful participation of women in political spaces within patriarchal societies demands a comprehensive strategy encompassing education, policy reform, societal attitude shifts, and protective measures. The goal is not only to increase women’s representation but also to ensure they have a real voice and influence in the political process.
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For further reading:
- African Feminist Forum. (2019). Women in African politics: Challenges and opportunities. AFF Report.
- Al-Ali, N. (2019). Women and Gender in the Middle East: Power, Politics, and Ideology. University Press.
- Bauer, G. (2017). The role of quotas in promoting women’s political representation in Africa. African Studies Review, 60(3), 27-42.
- Burnet, J. E. (2011). Women have found respect: Gender quotas, symbolic representation, and female empowerment in Rwanda. Politics & Gender, 7(3), 303-334.
- Franceschet, S., Krook, M. L., & Piscopo, J. M. (2012). The impact of gender quotas. Oxford University Press.
- Hansen, J. (2018). Gender Equality in Scandinavia. Nordic Journal of Feminist and Gender Research, 26(4), 268-280.
- Johnson, L. (2021). Women in Politics: The Impact of Traditional Gender Roles. Journal of Political Studies, 33(1), 112-130.
- Kabeer, N., & Natali, L. (2013). Gender equality and economic growth: Is there a win-win? *IDS Working Papers, 2013*(417), 1-58.
- Kagire, E. (2020). Rwandan Women in Politics: A Progressive Paradigm in Africa. African Political Review, 45(2), 150-165.
- Krook, M. L., & Restrepo Sanín, J. (2016). Violence against women in politics: A defense of the concept. Politics & Gender, 12(4), 740-745.
- Makulilo, A. (2020). Gender and politics in Tanzania: The case of female ministers in Magufuli’s administration. African Journal of Political Science and International Relations, 14(2), 120-129.
- Ndiaye, K. (2018). Patriarchy and power in Africa: The challenge of feminist politics. Journal of African Women’s Studies, 22(4), 345-359.
- Okeke-Ihejirika, P., & Franceschet, S. (2019). Feminism and political leadership in Nigeria. Development in Practice, 29(1), 65-77.
- Smith, A. (2019). Gender Norms and Women’s Political Participation. Global Gender Studies, 22(3), 199-215.
- Tripp, A. M. (2017). Women’s movements and challenges to neopatrimonial rule: Preliminary observations from Africa. Development and Change, 48(1), 50-66.
- United Nations Women. (2021). Enhancing women’s participation in decision-making processes: Lessons from the field. UN Women Report.
