Good Governance Linked To National Development

“Jamaica, the place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business” the vision 2030 slogan coined 12 years ago. Despite bringing about optimism among many Jamaicans the vision is 9 years from the target.

Realizing the vision, calls in to question, the impact of good governance on national development.

The National Integrity Action (NIA) Principal Director, Professor Trevor Munroe says Jamaica has “seriously underperformed” using the indicators of good governance. However, he’s of the view the progress of the past can be replicated in future.

On the positive side, Jamaica ranks at 7th internationally in press freedom which Professor Munroe says indicates a good pillar of governance.

Also compared to the 57% of Jamaicans who were open to giving and taking bribes in 2006 it has been reduced to 26%.

However, Executive Director of the Jamaica Accountability Meter Portal (JAMP) Jeanette Calder says another concern reports from Oversight Committees not making it to the Parliament especially committees where opposition members are barred from chairing.

Professor Munroe credits the judiciary branch saying it has set a good example as their case clearance rate has improved.