In previous articles, this column has examined the specific characteristics of good governance, and explained exactly how the APNU+AFC coalition intends to make each of those attributes-of-democracy, a reality in Guyana. Today, we will begin to examine the question of, why. Why is open government a good thing? How will our lives change for the better if Guyana is served by an accountable government, as opposed to a secretive, closed, exclusive clique of elite rulers, such as the Jagdeo/Ramotar regime? The coalition believes that open governance is directly linked to real development. The partnership knows that transparency and accountability lead to a better life for all citizens. And a happy life is what real development is all about. Development is not more vehicles on the roads or bigger buildings – all of which can be purchased with ill-gotten wealth. Development is simply, better living for all Guyanese.
Open government is the doctrine, that citizens have the absolute right to access the documents and proceedings of government, so that ordinary Guyanese can exercise oversight. Open government includes transparency and accountability. It allows for public scrutiny. It opposes all forms of secrecy. It is the hallmark of democratic governance. Open government encourages freedom of speech and expression, freedom of association, freedom of assembly, and most importantly, freedom of the press. Open government empowers groups, clubs, political parties, faith based organisations and Non-Governmental Organisations, so that those bodies can oversee government’s actions. So, how can the coalition form an open government?
Transparent and accountable governance can only be effected if leaders possess a culture of openness. The APNU+AFC has made a solemn commitment to this form of governance. In many developed countries, legislation has been passed which mandates government transparency. The United States passed the Freedom of Information Act, in 1966. Other countries – in which the United Nations has determined that citizens are happiest – also have similar laws. Denmark, Norway, France, The Netherlands, Australia and Canada, have all passed such laws in the 1970s and 1980s. Clearly, we can see a direct cause-and-effect relationship between freedom-of-information legislation, and the happiness of citizens – real development. The coalition will – within one year of being elected – pass such enabling-legislation, including whistleblower-protection laws and witness-protection legislation.