African Integrity Magazine – Transparency and Accountability… Critical Elements for Sustainable Democracy and Development

Transparency and Accountability… Critical Elements for Sustainable Democracy and Development

Sep 28, 2013 Samuel Issues 0

OUTLINE

Definitions (Transparency, Accountability, Democracy, Development
Linkages
The Anatomy of Corruption
The Role of Leadership
Conclusion

1. Definitions

1.1 Transparency…. Openness, Communication often used synonymously as accountability operating in such a manner that it is easy for others to see what actions are performed, NEARLY all decision making is carried out publicly, Accountability…. Answerability, blameworthiness, The expectation of account giving reporting or being responsible to some person or body Liability, Democracy… a form of government of the people, by the people, for the people, Where all ELIGIBLE citizens participate equally in the creation of laws. The opportunity for the people too oust their leaders without the need of a revolution

Sustainable Development: A pattern of resources use that aims to meet human needs while preserving the environment distinct from growth which deals with statistical measures. A Retarded child may have growth without development. Growth in GDP without a corresponding improvement in the well-being of the citizens

2. Linkages

Transparency without impunity is accountability…. You clearly see me committing an offence, but I am not accountability to anyone…. (IMPUNITY), Transparency and accountability are inherent in democracy…. Government of the people, by the people (transparency) for the people (accountability Free and fair elections are the products of transparency and accountability….. But are less than the whole of democracy. A Statesman encourages transparency and accountability…. A Politician wants to have and to hold power, by almost any means. Absence of transparency and accountability usually termed corruption…. The sure sign of a failed society

3. The Anatomy of Corruption

Corruption is a PURCHASE OF GOODWILL. Two major types…. Subsistence and greed takes 2 to tango…. Giver (offer) and taker (demand) Giver is desperate, has the means, and finds an opportunity Taker is greedy, sometimes desperate both parties assume immunity

4. The Role of Leadership

Recognize and work towards ensuring the basic rights of citizens provide the basic needs (education, food, shelter, health) as rights rather than as goodwill provide an environment that does not require corruption for basic survival Legislate against and adequately and publicly punish bad behaviour (Corruption)

Conclusion

God give us statesmen who are also good politicians… And politicians who strive for statesmanship

Being excerpt of keynote address presented by Dr. M. Afolabi at the 7^th International Integrity Leadership Conference. Held in Accra, Ghana