Local governments in Tanzania are not given enough autonomy by the central government, limiting their ability to serve their communities effectively. The relationship between central and local governments is more like a boss-employee dynamic rather than a partnership. This hinders the development of self-governing authorities at the local level, as outlined in reform policies. The central government controls local authorities, making them more responsive to political interests than the needs of the people. Autonomy for local authorities is crucial for improving decentralization and promoting national development.