Accountability of government crucial to good governance-Mr Manu

Kumasi, April 29, GNA- Mr. Kofi Opoku Manu, Ashanti Regional Minister, has said active participation of the citizenry and accountability of the government are essential ingredients of good governance and democracy. He has therefore stressed the need for Ghanaians to be inspired through acquisition of knowledge to enable them participate effectively in all spheres of governance.

Mr. Opoku Manu said this in a speech read on his behalf at the launch of the 9th Annual Constitutional Week Celebration at Agona in the Sekyere South District of the Ashanti Region on Tuesday. The function, organized by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) and attended by participants including Educationists, Assembly members, heads of decentralized departments and others was under theme "Beyond Elections, Citizens' Participation and Government Accountability".

The Regional Minister urged Ghanaians to initiate actions to ensure that the government addresses their needs at all times. Mr Manu said the development of the nation was a collective responsibility of both the citizenry and the government and asked them to play active role and involve themselves in decision-making. Mr Opoku Afriyie, a member of the NCCE, said the NCCE would continue to abide by its responsibility of enlightening the citizenry about the constitution.

He commended Ghanaians for ensuring a peaceful election last year and advised them to help consolidate the gains chalked over the years. Nana Frempong Anokye Ababio, Paramount Chief of Agona Traditional Area who chaired the function, said the high illiteracy rate in the country has been a major factor militating against active participation of people in the country's governance. He appealed to the government to resource the Commission as well as the Electoral Commission to enhance their programmes and to deepen democracy and good governance. 29 April 09