A former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Professor Akilakpa Sawyerr, has charged government to pay heed to the needs of Ghanaians in order to give meaning to the nation’s democracy.
A recent report stated that despite an increase in citizen participation in governance, the government has failed to address the issues and complaints of the people.
Professor Akilakpa Sawyerr told Citi News that in order for government to achieve the level of development it desires, it must first listen and address the concerns of the people.
[contextly_sidebar id=”GnyxqxC76pSttcf7oDUZtnqWqpJP5xia”]”The first step is to hear the citizens, get their voices out and that has been the drive for many institutions we’ve managed. There are two elements, the supply side, capability and preparedness. Sometimes we find that even the office bearers who are supposed to be doing something or other, don’t do it, not because they are bad guys but they are not equipped to do it or they don’t know how to do it. There is a capacity deficit on the part of the supply side which has to be addressed, he said”
Professor Sawyerr also called on Ghanaians to actively advocate for the change they seek and work hard to ensure that it its given to them.
“We also require a much more confident citizenry that doesn’t just voice concerns but actually demand that right that things be done and monitor it,” he added
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By: Edwin Kwakofi/citifmonline.com/Ghana