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By Samuel Zan Akologo: Presentation at the GMEF Quarterly Forum. 19 May, 2011
Introduction
We should begin by re-stating the purpose of political governance: Governance only has meaning if it delivers opportunities for our well being. Hence, APRM report on Ghana (Jan. 2006) emphasised the art and skill of utilising political or collective power for the management of society at all levels from the smallest village to the largest nation. Governance provides the foundation for the promotion of human development and the alleviation of poverty.
Preconditions Contd.
Spirit of voluntarism among citizens Right attitude towards public affairs by both duty-bearers and right holders. Openness and transparency on the part of public office holders (duty bearers) Access to reliable information by power holders (citizens)
Challenges of SA Contd.
Political party structures at the community level pressure on their members not to monitor their government in power. Weaknesses in national development planning system Party manifesto promises versus National Development Plans. Constraints of legal environment e.g. absence of Freedom of Information Law. Recent history of state repression. Bad example of some CSOs at the community level e.g. lack of transparency.
Conclusion.
Social Accountability at the grassroots can promote the social cohesion that seems to be eluding us fast in Ghana. e.g. the rise of Foot Soldiers (right or wrong allegations), inter-party conflicts etc. Systems and mechanisms for Social Accountability, as discussed, are essential but civic virtues are needed to grease and sustain it. We need to bring ethics back in all the socialization processes in schools, professional pre-service and in-service training and into the national psyche. Deterrents are needed and must be made to work.
END
Thank you.