This article conducts a philosophical analysis of the legitimacy of political power in Tanzania using John Locke’s political theory as a framework. It evolved from researcher’s observation and empirical studies that concerned political legitimacy in Tanzania. The lack of philosophical approach opened away for philosophical investigations and the necessity of involving philosophical views like that of the John Locke, in addressing of the shaking political legitimacy in Tanzania. The factors such as; allegations of corruption, restricted freedom of expression and limited (...) access to justice, stimulated the author into philosophical inquiring, in accordance to John Locke’s political philosophy on the theory of legitimacy of political power. The Article examines how Locke’s principles of consent, protection of individual rights, and limited government apply within Tanzania’s socio-political context. The study highlights significant challenges to political legitimacy, including allegations of electoral manipulation, constraints on political freedoms, and governance issues such as corruption and lack of transparency. Recommendations are proposed to enhance democratic governance and accountability in Tanzania, emphasizing the critical need to strengthen electoral integrity, protect fundamental rights such as freedom of expression and assembly, and bolster institutional frameworks for transparency and judicial independence. By applying Locke’s principles, this analysis aims to contribute insights into the dynamics of political authority in Tanzania and suggest pathways for fostering a more inclusive, accountable, and legitimate governance framework aligned with the aspirations of its citizens. (shrink)

This article delves into examining how according to Aristotle’s understanding Ethics and Politics, though, considered independent fields of study today, they are closely related as two parts or dimensions of a single inquiry. Our interest in this question of how Aristotle conceived these two fields of inquiry in their relatedness is drawn by our discovery that in his work Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle has given space to the discussion on the subject matter of politics. In Book 1 of Nicomechean Ethics some (...) chapters are dedicated to examining the subject matter of politics, the aims of political science and the role of the political society is conceived to be the cultivation of virtuous life of the citizens. The foundation of this relationship lies on the fact that these two sciences are both practical sciences whose aim is the pursued and attainment of eudemonia, both individually and communally. Ethics and politics have a common method according to Aristotle. The practical truth that is proper to these practical sciences is achieved through the method called dialectic; which Aristotle conceives as an analytical instrument that facilitate by bringing clarity. Even the one who is an “amateur” to Aristotelian philosophy would realize that Aristotle has a conception according to which politics and ethics are related. This is a brief attempt to show the nature of that relationship. While the study of ethics shows the intrinsic requirements (virtues both moral and intellectual) for happiness, the study of politics seeks to show the best constitution (the best political climate) necessary for the cultivation of the life of virtues and consequently, the attainment of happiness. (shrink)

The broad range of the managements of the natural resources in Tanzania has resulted into the creation of complex organizations and systems which has led to the exploitation of the workers depending on these resources for livelihood. These are various groups of actors such as insurgents’ groups, minority groups, and corrupt democratically elected leaders. Obviously, these leads to internal mistrust and commotion within a state rendered in calmness and contrary to peaceful coexistence. As a researcher the bottom line of these (...) constrains needs holistic education and realization to combat the eminent crisis at hand. Each person has a role to play for the peaceful living in a society with great goals and opportunities. The dignity and integrity of each person is a very important and at stake. My research analysis indicates how Kantian ethics will tackle the above mentioned constrains for the peaceful coexistence in the society. For Kant, every human being has a right and obligation for every moral action. In any democratic society where laws and statutes are adhered to the issues of natural resources must be accounted for with the aim of common good. Using Immanuel Kant’s dictum on categorical imperative, these transformations in the management of the natural resources in Tanzania can be effectively be achieved. (shrink)