Making Politics Work for Development: Harnessing Transparency and Citizen Engagement as opined by the APGA National Chairman, Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa – Written by NDUKA ANYANWU
“Making Politics Work for Development: Harnessing Transparency and Citizen Engagement” is an opinion expressed by the APGA National Chairman, Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa. This viewpoint highlights the importance of transparency and citizen engagement in politics to drive development. Here is an elaboration on the key concepts emphasized by Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa:
Transparency in Politics: Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa emphasizes the need for transparency in political processes and governance. This includes transparency in campaign financing, political party activities, and government decision-making. By ensuring transparency, citizens can hold politicians accountable for their actions and promote trust in the political system.
Citizen Engagement: The APGA National Chairman underscores the significance of citizen engagement in politics. It involves actively involving citizens in decision-making processes, policy formulation, and monitoring of government activities. By engaging citizens, politicians can better understand the needs and aspirations of the people they represent, leading to more effective and people-centered development initiatives.
Development-Oriented Politics: Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa highlights the importance of aligning politics with development goals. Politics should not be solely focused on power struggles or personal gains but should prioritize the well-being and progress of the society. Development-oriented politics seeks to address pressing issues such as poverty alleviation, education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and job creation.
Accountability and Anti-Corruption: The opinion emphasizes the role of accountability and the fight against corruption in politics. Political leaders should be held accountable for their actions and decisions, especially concerning the use of public resources. By promoting transparency and accountability, politicians can help curb corruption and ensure that resources are effectively utilized for development purposes.
Participatory Governance: The APGA National Chairman advocates for participatory governance, which involves active citizen participation in decision-making and governance processes. This includes mechanisms such as town hall meetings, public consultations, and involvement of civil society organizations. By actively involving citizens, politicians can benefit from diverse perspectives and ensure that policies and projects meet the actual needs of the people.
Democratic Institutions: The opinion underscores the importance of strong democratic institutions in fostering transparency, citizen engagement, and development. Independent electoral bodies, an impartial judiciary, and effective oversight institutions play a crucial role in ensuring fair political processes and accountability.
By promoting transparency, citizen engagement, accountability, and a
development-oriented approach to politics, Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa and APGA aim to make politics a catalyst for positive change and sustainable development. These principles emphasize the active role of citizens in shaping their own future and the importance of responsible and responsive political leadership.
Note: This article is written on behalf of Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa, the APGA National Chairman.
