GOVERNANCE: THE LEADER’S TOOL AND THE FOLLOWER’S HOPE

From the restructuring and repositioning of Singapore and Malaysia to the evident transformation of Kigali one thing remains the sure Blueprint; Governance .Governance fundamentally refers to the process of decision making and Implementation within a nation, state or society. Monarchies, democracies, dictatorships, libertarianism among others form the upper echelon of governance models the world over. They serve as the instrument through which decisions are made and implemented howbeit these systems may not necessarily present the same result.

Colonel Muammar Al-Ghadaffi’s dictatorship for instance had citizens ‘wellbeing’ at heart. Seizing power through a coup d’état he built structures, systems, provided education and other socially ‘sound’ development indices, nevertheless his people rose and ousted him, why? Because he denied them their liberty.

Lee Kuan Yew, a lawyer by profession engineered Singapore’s elevation from third to first world after about three decades. His adoption of democracy nestled with silver lining elements of dictatorship changed Singapore. The policy of nurturing and building a system that considers future generation and the next human user propelled the dilapidated economy of Singapore to one of enviable repute. Although some labelled him as somewhat ruthless, the dexterity with which he ruled almost made it impossible to detect any flaw in his governance. In contrast with Gadhafi’s rule the people thought or felt their liberties were infringed upon.

Paul Kagame a former war lord was given the mandate to lead Rwanda; Succeeding Pasteur Bizimmagu. The cacophony of noises that surrounded his ascension to the throne after the resignation of Bizimmagu couldn’t stop him from the cause he chose to follow. His convictions was useful and downright clear. To change the situation of Rwanda for its future generation. He had a mandate to restructure, educate, build and and direct the country’s economy for the betterment of generations born and unborn. The model of democracy the country adopted was the ultimate the country needed. His projects and policies has propelled the war torn and ethnic divided Rwanda to an enviable fast growing economy without infringing on the rights of its citizens. Use democracy, be firm and never comprise were and still remains arguably his paramount principles.

John Magafuli of Tanzania known internationally for his zero tolerance for greed, corruption and waste has also presented a new form of governance in Africa; firm and strict whiles being democratic. His governance principles are not farfetched and is likely to propel this African nation to the height he envisages

As a Ghanaian and libertarian, I believe the world in general and Africa in particular will see massive development if Leaders are fair and firm, respect its citizen’s right, eschew corruption and work without thinking of the next election but the next generation. There and only then will Africa rise.

From Africa’s term limit breakers to the conceders, one thing is certain. If rights of the citizens are respected, development is expected and relevant prudent policies are implemented, then governance stands as the only tool that can propel Africa from its current status to that of perfect or near perfect development status