Effect of ICT on Public Participation in Decision-making

Abstract

This paper reflects on citizens' participation in government`s decision making. Using documentary review, it ponders on the efforts being taken to ensure that the citizens effectively participate in governmental decision-making. Attention is specifically directed at exploring the position of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in fostering participatory decision-making by drawing experience from various studies on citizens' participation in government activities. In examining the efficiency of the studies on participation that have been undertaken since our nation embarked on government reforms, it observes that both the policy makers and researchers have accorded limited attention to the role of ICTs in facilitating inclusive decision-making at the grassroots. The paper shows that these actors have continued to focus on physical interactions rather than looking at other platforms for interactions such as e-participation and the extent to which ICTs are utilized or can be used to facilitate decision-making at lower levels. Against this backdrop, the paper stresses the need for government stakeholders to accord more attention to the potential of ICTs in ensuring effective citizens participation