Power Decentralization to Manage Good Governance Problems in Oromia National Regional State: The Case of Wuchale Woreda

Abstract

Abstract

Currently, federalism is adopted by many countries in the world as a system of government in which power is exercised as self-rule and shared rule between tiers of government. Depending on the features of federalism, Ethiopia has also practiced the decentralization of power to local governments. The intended outcomes of power devolution to the lower level are to enable self-administration and decision-making on local affairs. The end result of power decentralization is to make sure good governance at the local level. Even though the purpose of the program brought considerable changes in the overall social affairs, it still suffers different challenges and limitations throughout its practical implementation. The basic research question of the study also revolves around power devolution and its role to manage good governance problems. As the finding of this study, the power decentralization practice in Wuchale woreda did not accomplish obtain the desired objectives of the system. The practice at the woreda level still remains as deconcentrate administrative unit rather than being a fully autonomous local government. Based on the finding of this study, the power decentralization in Wuchale woreda also is challenged by constraints. These challenges were the absence of adequate power devolution, the absence of clear legal frameworks on devolved functions and powers, the lack of skilled and trained personnel, uncommitted political leaders, the weak financial and budgeting power, a low level of community participation, and weak public service delivery. In addition, unresponsiveness for community needs and priorities and lack of accountability and transparency were also challenges of the system that aggravated the community questions on good governance problems. Therefore, to achieve the role of power decentralization to manage good governance, the study recommends the issue of devolution of authority, clear legal frameworks, enable the capacity of local governments, practicing good governance principles in a real sense, and create a conducive environment for community participation.