The Decentralisation- Recentralisation Paradox in Uganda’s Local Governance: Dissecting the Drivers

Abstract

Uganda’s governance framework has witnessed a paradoxical shift between decentralisation and recentralisation since the 1990s, sparking debates among scholars and policymakers. This article examines the intricate factors driving the decentralisation– recentralisation phenomenon in Uganda’s governance framework. The study employs a qualitative research approach that analyses secondary data drawn from academic journals, policy documents, and existing studies. The decentralisation–recentralisation dialectic results from power struggles between the central government and local authorities, undermining democratic governance. Decentralisation initially promoted participation and accountability, but recentralisation efforts have eroded these gains. Understanding the decentralisation–recentralisation interplay is crucial for policymakers to inform targeted policy interventions which strengthen decentralisation and democratic governance. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on decentralisation and recentralisation, providing insights into the paradoxical nature of Uganda’s governance framework. It relies on secondary data, but further research is needed to explore the perspectives of local authorities and citizens. Policymakers must prioritise institutional reforms and citizen participation to achieve balanced governance amidst decentralisation dynamics.