‘Build solid structures before rollout of e-governance’
Story: Abdulai SAAKA, Accra
STEPHEN Tindi, a lecturer at the Department of Communication Studies at the University of Media Arts and Communications (UniMAC), has urged government to prioritize building robust organizational structures before fully implementing e-governance initiatives.
His remarks come at a time when Ghana is rapidly transitioning towards digitization, with state institutions embracing automated systems as part of the country’s e-governance efforts.
Speaking on Zed in the Morning, Mr. Tindi stressed the importance of having solid structures in place to avoid potential pitfalls, such as the exacerbation of corruption. “Implementing technology without proper structures could worsen corruption rather than curb it,” he cautioned, highlighting the need for a strategic approach in the rollout of such initiatives.
Tindi pointed out that while e-governance has the potential to enhance transparency and efficiency in government operations, these benefits can only be realized if the right frameworks are established.
He emphasized the role of public participation and the need for citizens to exercise their right to access information, particularly as Ghana strengthens its digital infrastructure.
“Although we have the Right to Information (RTI) Act, many citizens, including journalists, do not fully exercise their right to seek information from public officers,” he noted.
Drawing attention to the role of the media in the governance process, Tindi explained that the media’s freedom is not just for its own sake but serves as a platform for the public to express their concerns to those in authority.
“Freedom of the press is given because we know that the public relies on the media to share their expressions with those in power,” he explained, urging media practitioners to raise awareness about the RTI Act and its potential to empower citizens.
He also referred to Ghana’s Constitution, specifically Article 21, which grants every citizen the right to access public sector information, not just media organizations. “This right to information is for everyone, and perhaps more education is needed to ensure that citizens understand their ability to hold the government accountable,” he said, emphasizing the role of ordinary citizens in influencing governmental policies that impact their daily lives.
Tindi described information as “he oxygen of democracy,” emphasizing that without access to crucial information, citizens cannot hold local and national authorities accountable. He called for greater citizen engagement, noting that informed individuals are better positioned to influence policies that positively impact their communities. As Ghana continues its shift towards digital governance, experts like Stephen Tindi are advocating for a cautious and structured approach, ensuring that technology enhances transparency and accountability rather than becoming a new avenue for malpractice.
