Mr Kingsley Nyarko, Executive Director of the Danquah Institute (DI), a Political ideological institute said a functional democracy is built on good governance, transparency, responsibility and accountability which are critical to the progress and development of a nation.
He therefore stressed the need for the people to take keen interest in the activities of governments and the strengthening of institutions of State, and the empowerment of civil society organisations to ensure a productive and progressive nation.
Dr Nyarko was speaking at the launch of the tenth Anniversary of the DI in Accra after a milestone of accomplishments, challenges and limitations. Activities earmarked for the anniversary includes; donation to the Nsawam Medium Prison on March 8; Public Lecture on March 15, on the topic: “Enquiry and Advocacy - The Think Tank As A Democratic Imperative”.
He said every society thrives when its citizens consciously partake in its development and that citizens build a nation through the exchange of ideas, knowledge and other resources such as their time, energy and money. “In order to build a solid and strong nation, the three arms of government, together with the media and the masses must work in concert, complement each other’s efforts and promote activities that ensure good governance,” he said.
Dr Nyarko said, over the years, the DI has been part of civil society organisations whose activities through advocacy, research, policy and media engagements have added greatly to the promotion of democratic governance in the country.
He said since its establishment in 2008 the institute has been at the forefront of good governance, promoted participatory democracy, and instigated electoral reforms at the Electoral Commission.
The Danquah Institute is a Centre-right political ideological institute/think tank that seeks to promote the dignity, liberties and freedoms of the individuals through the conservative ideology.