Democracy and Good Governance

Book excerpt: Democracy is all about masses participation in public functions. Private Citizens' participation in politics and public functions, it is argued that it is the surest security against the tyranny of the state over the individual. But participation in politics and public function by private citizens is not enough to guarantee security against the tyranny of the state over individuals unless an individual can through his personal participation effectively check and control the government, especially the effects of government's policies on him. But how can his personal participation be effective if he does not understand his rights and responsibilities as a citizen, the principles, processes and requirements of democracy as well as the nature and purpose of a political state? Today, following the wave of democratization sweeping across the globe, democracy has become the most coveted form of government. Unfortunately, most states that joined the band wagon of democratization are not enjoying the so-called dividends of democracy. This, many scholars have blamed on lack of proper understanding of the basic principles, processes and requirements of democracy. Political education is one instrument that enhances a people's capacity for effective and meaningful participation in government and public functions. The aim of this book is to enhance our understanding of contending issues in democracy. The book discusses such issues as: meaning, principles and conditions for the working of democracy, who counts as the people in a democracy, the possibility of effective representation, majority rule and minority rights, the meaning and principles of good governance and the relation between democracy and good governance. The book argues that in as much as democracy could promote good governance, it is not a guarantee nor synonymous with good governance.