The Complex, Impressive Legacy of John Maguful
The unexpected news of John Magufuli’s death sent shockwaves in Africa and across the world, in what became an unfortunate end to a somewhat promising chapter in African politics. His no-nonsense approach to corruption and state extravagance was a significant characteristic of his political career, although blighted by his not-so-favorable approach to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite being attacked by his critics for closing in on democratic spaces, it is undoubted that he was a progressive force for development in Tanzania. Inspired by Julius Mwalimu Nyerere, he took on a fierce independent path, holding foreign companies accountable for equitable benefit sharing. Magufuli did not tolerate the nonchalance of the public service regarding the delivery of their mandates, creating an impeccable start to his presidency.
He was focused on results-oriented political and economic approaches to provide efficient leadership for Tanzania when assumed the presidential office in 2015. He castigated the absenteeism in the civil service, believing that servant leadership was the hallmark of serving in a public office. He canceled Independence Celebrations to limit unnecessary government spending. He introduced public clean-ups and banned foreign travels for public servants. His methods attempted to redefine the scope of public office within the African context – often considered to be regressive. It was an impressive blueprint that other African countries could emulate.
State intervention was one of the pinnacles that defined Magufuli’s economic policies. Although mired in a cloud of lack of transparency as the years of his presidency progressed, such state-led investment was responsible for infrastructural development.
The creation of a standard gauge railway to link the country with its regional neighbors, the extension of major highways, and the development of the public transport system serves as a basis for his desire to materially transform Tanzania (most of this was done when Magufuli was Minister of Works from 2010-2015).
