Anya Miracle Re-echoes Tenet Of Good Governance, X-rays Abia Institutions Of Government

By Anya Miracle Enyinnaya Sarah (Umuahia)

Good governance from a civil rights perspective refers primarily to  the process that guarantees the freedom and responsibility of  public institutions to conduct public affairs, manage public resources and facilitates the realization of human rights. 

In this time of great change, speedy globalization and increasing uncertainty, all countries whether developed or developing are searching for a new form of governance that is better adapted to the times so as to gain an advantage in economic competitiveness and create substantial and sustainable social growth.

While there is no internationally agreed definition of ‘good governance’, it may span the following topics: full respect for human rights, the rule of law, multi-actor partnerships, political pluralism, transparent and accountable processes and institutions, an efficient and effective public sector, legitimacy, access to knowledge, information and education, political empowerment of people, equity, sustainability, and attitudes and values that foster responsibility, solidarity and tolerance.

It is not just how well the state is ruled by the government or how well a state is recognized at the federal level but how peaceful the governed feel and the relaxation gotten from the fact that their taxes are used to their benefits.

Good governance in a meaningful assemblage encapsulates food security, implementation of laws without bias, good roads and infrastructures, accountability, job creation, youth empowerment, active primary health care, and effective management of scarce resources. In simple terms, people should be able to close their eyes completely to sleep without having to worry about needless killings in an environment where good governance thrives.

In summary, good governance relates to the political and institutional processes and outcomes that are necessary to achieve the goals of development. The true test of ‘good governance’ is the degree to which it delivers on the promises of civil, cultural, economic, political and social needs of citizens.

The key question is: Are the institutions of government in Abia State effectively guaranteeing the right to health, adequate housing, sufficient food, quality education, fair justice and personal security?

The answer to the above is a decorated capital NO. This negative has spurred the Progressive Abia Youths to take positive action, to initiate and execute what would be a long walk to political and social freedom; to interact with all political candidates in Abia State and have them commit to the ideals of good governance and ultimately hold them accountable to walk their talk when they get into office.

A progressive Abia with Progressive Abia Youths remains the ultimate goal.

You are welcome to join us.

Anya Miracle Enyinnaya Sarah is the PRO II, Progressive Abia Youths Association and writes from Umuahia, Abia State.