Events surrounding the 2015 elections will dominate T&T affairs in coming months. Almost seven decades since universal adult suffrage, and despite recent frequent regime change, public trust in government is waning. Citizens, frustrated by continuing apathy to their most urgently felt concerns, are demanding reforms of government institutions. Popular political debate resonates with "quick fix" solutions, whereas the need is for "...systemic rethinking of the role of citizens and of government..."
Come polling day, do we anticipate more "new" government or a fundamental change to new governance?
This new governance is not mere exercise of authority in managing a country's resources, but balanced use of power to improve the quality of life of all citizens. It features: accountability–ease with which citizens, having access to information, can keep monitoring government commitments, sources of funding and timeliness of action. Effectiveness–delivery of services according to need and available budget, wise resource use and managing public goods for the benefit of all.
Fairness–trust in government and its institutions to be equitable, reliable, accountable and corruption-free.
We should insist that individuals seeking nomination for the elections demonstrate commitment to new governance as a precondition for eligibility. For, improved conduct of public affairs does matter. There is overwhelming evidence of the high correlation between the quality of governance and per capita income and improved economic performance.
Additionally, resource-rich countries have completely different development paths, depending on how prudently they manage resources for the benefit of all. Good governance is also a key pillar of sustainable development since it "signifies the ability of people to help shape their own lives and to reap the happiness that comes with political participation and freedom."
Potential election candidates are members of political parties which aspire to form government. Citizens should therefore ensure that they are fully aware of what parties intend and assess their capacity and credibility to deliver on these ideas and promises.
We must pressure parties to define themselves in terms of technical and managerial competence; organisational capacity; reliability, predictability and adherence to the rule of law; accountability; ideas for instituting transparency and open information systems and commitment to participation. These all underscore good governance.
We must refuse to support political campaigns based on character assassination. They better serve as valuable opportunities for contesting ideas, highlighting key issues.
Parties must be challenged to reveal their proposals for organising government, strategically responding to plunging oil prices, creating a more efficient public service, strengthening the legal and judicial system, combating crime and corruption, improving accountability for public funds, embedding respect for the law and human rights, formalising inclusive, pluralistic institutional arrangements and actively promoting freedom of speech and a free press. They must also clarify implementation arrangements, including the role of civil society and citizens.
As election nears, pressure will mount for citizens to choose sides. However, prior to this, they must reflect on the kind of government they want. New governance promotes self-empowerment and enables self-achievement: these are important campaign issues!
Winston R Rudder
Petit Valley