By Fleming El-Amin
Government belongs to the people — and the people can only govern what they can see.
Transparency is not a courtesy extended by officials; it is an obligation of public service. Budgets, contracts, votes, and decisions made in the people's name should be visible to the people, in plain language and in good time.
But transparency is a two-way street. It only matters if citizens are watching. Active participation — attending public meetings, reading the record, asking questions, and voting in every election — is what turns open government into good government.
For the common good, demand to see. And then, look.
Adapted from the original article on the ACGG website. Edit this post in the admin to publish the full original text.