Let’s combat barriers that hinder citizen’s participation in governance – Bernard Avle
The General Manager of Citi FM and Citi TV, Bernard Avle, says disinformation and restrictive laws limit active public participation in governance.
He emphasised the need to combat falsehoods and legal barriers that discourage citizens from engaging in national development and holding leaders accountable.
The citizens on the other hand, he said must not accept poor service delivery from the government but rather hold leaders accountable to improve governance.
He made the call at the Star Ghana Foundation’s Akoto Ampaw Active Citizenship Dialogue held in Accra on the theme “Intergenerational Dialogue on Active Citizenship in Ghana: Lessons and Opportunities for the Future.”
According to Mr Avle, active citizenship plays a crucial role in the fight against corruption, as engaged citizens are more likely to demand transparency and accountability.
He urged scholars and professionals to use their knowledge to impact the lives of vulnerable people rather than merely engaging in debates and speeches.
“We need activist intellectuals, not just people who use their knowledge to speak English and deliver speeches. True intellectuals must apply their knowledge to create real impact, particularly at the community level,” he stated.
He further highlighted the importance of cultural activism, emphasising that creative arts, including theatre, should be used as a medium for social change.
“There are creatives who are cultural activists, and until we own our stories and present them in an entertaining yet enlightening manner, we can never be free,” he noted.
Mr Avle also urged civil society to harness its convening power to promote community-based collaborations and called on the private sector to invest in credible media to enhance social accountability.
He stressed the need for a strong National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), arguing that it should be well-resourced to educate citizens on their rights and responsibilities.
BY RAISSA SAMBOU
