According to Nah, the Government of Liberia in the last eight years has taken solid steps to open the national space that allows citizens to have access to pertinent information, adding, “We must be grateful for the progress Liberia has achieved so far”.
He made the statement in an interview with the Liberia News Agency days after the observance of the first anniversary of the Open Government Partnership (OGP), held recently in Monrovia.
The civil society activist noted that other countries across the world would wish that they had the latitude to hold public discussions and express their views publicly as is done in Liberia.
He pointed out that Civil Society in other countries can only dream of a seat at the table with public officials to argue or discuss the passage of laws and inclusion of provisions for fighting corruption and other transgressions; adding “ Openness is far-fetched in those countries”.
According to him, budgets disclosure and discussion in those countries are for the elites and expenditures never for discussion, noting “though Liberia may be shackled with corruption, but efforts to increase openness through the passage of important legislations are a step forward.
He cited the Freedom of Information Act, Public Financial Management Act and Anti-Corruption Act amongst others, noting that the imprint of civil society on these processes provide a glimmer of hope for a better democratic and open future.
Nah disclosed that during much of Liberia’s years of independence, government activities were shrouded in secrecy that led to the abuse of power that did not only spark conflict, but also undermined national development, as systemic corruption led to individuals profiting at the expense of national development.
He said during these years, “to seek information or proactively disclose information about transgressions in the management of public resources was risky and in some cases life threatening”.
Nah revealed that as a result of the devastating and yet calming impact of the Liberian conflict in the last 15 years, many civil society organizations were formed to proactively push the government to not only consolidate peace and espouse democratic values, but also to sagaciously lead the management of the economy.
He said the value of the OGP has to be translated by those who participate, and their commitment to remain engaged through clearly noticeable actions.
According to him, countries must not join important initiatives, such as the OGP with a desire for short-term recognition, but with long-term commitment that would completely change the lives of citizens through measurable and dynamic actions, noting “We hope Liberia is in the OGP for the long term”.
He said that OGP can only be relevant to Liberia if stakeholders robustly implement existing transparency and accountability legislations, and strive for more openness and people participation in the origin of public policies.
Han pointed out that Liberia’s journey in the OGP signifies a commitment to long-term openness and accountability and we in Civil Society are certain that with more openness, Liberia can only become a better place.
By Prince Nagbe
LINA PSN/PTK