The relative shift of power centre in Tanzania's public policy making in the 1980's

This study attempts to unveil the relative shift of power centre in public policy making in Tanzania in the 1980's and its impact in public policy making. It traces various contradictions that emerged after independence and the resultant changes which aimed at consolidating and strengthening the power of the state petty bourgeoisie in public policy making. It argues that the relative strong economy in the first two decades of independence, the ideological and coercive apparatuses of the state, the nature and character of state petty bourgeoisie, together with finance capital aid provision outlook, helped the state petty bourgeoisie through the party to consolidate its hegemonic power in public policy making. The findings of the study indicate that the economic crisis (which was manifesting itself in budgetary and balance of trade deficits) in 1980's led to the re-emergence of both domestic and the international pressure for change which finally made the party surrender its public policy making role to the government under the direct control of Finance capital through the IMF and the World Bank. The fundamental reversal of previous party policies/ decisions, technicization of public policy making, shift of budgetary allocations, worsening of the living standard of the "have nots" and the increasing role of the cabinet in public policy making are manifestations of this shift of power centre in public policy making. Taking the analysis further the study demonstrates that, the relative shift of power centre in public policy making has weakened the power of the state petty bourgeoisie in public policy making in favour of Finance capital. It also shows that the shift has led to deepening of dependency and killing of domestically oriented public policy making initiatives. We recommend that due regard must be given to; first, domestic realities which includes locally available resources, and secondly the national sovereignty. This would not only ensure viability and sustainability of the policies but also enhancement of national progress and freedom. To consolidate this policy base it is important to listen to people's advice and different opinions. The question of democracy and transparency in this respect is a matter of necessity.