Recently, members of the executive and legislative arms of government in Anambra state embarked on a two-day retreat. With the understanding of its importance, both arms of government are certainly on the verge of forging a stronger bond towards achieving the “One Anambra Agenda.”
The retreat had the theme “Strengthening leadership collaboration for effective governance and delivery of the Anambra agenda”. Tony Blair Foundation helped to facilitate the retreat which featured break-out sessions, thematic discussions, among others. At the end, the bi-governmental arms’ retreat which was held in Agulu turned to be the needed ‘oil’ for the wheels of progress and advancement of Anambra State.
The retreat which is probably the first in the region, offered a unique opportunity for lawmakers, policymakers, and their staff to have in-depth conversations to deliberate on a wide range of issues affecting Ndi Anambra. By virtue of being held outside the usual chambers of government in a more relaxed and informal environment, it allowed participants to express themselves more freely.
For the executive arm of government led by Governor Chukwuma Soludo, the retreat provided an opportunity to interact with lawmakers from different political parties and ideologies. It allowed the executive to present its policy initiatives and legislative agenda for the future to the legislature for deliberation, understanding and input. This created the needed mutual understanding which will eventually lead to better coordination and alignment of government activities.
On the other hand, the legislative arm of government led by the Speaker of Anambra State House of Assembly, Right Honourable Somtochukwu Udeze, utilized the retreat to push for its own policy initiatives and to urge the executive to prioritize its legislative agenda. It enabled the lawmakers to pitch their ideas to policymakers and engage them in meaningful discussions on how to address issues that affect their constituents.
Governor Soludo while speaking to the press on the sidelines of the retreat emphasized that the only ball that exists in the field is project Anambra irrespective of party differences therefore there should be an unflinching determination to make the state work by every stakeholder and political player.
Ndị Anambra should be desirous of this Executive-Legislative partnership because gone are the days when fisticuffs between the Executive and Legislature is seen as symptom of progress and promotion of the people’s interest. This partnership will help build relationships and deepen understanding of one another’s areas of responsibility without interference and better effective collaboration. Thus, making separation of powers and checks and balances healthy. Such relationships are essential in strengthening the nation’s democratic governance and improving the delivery of public services.
It is evident that Governor Soludo and Rt. Hon. Udeze understand that this kind of meetings can also be used to build consensus among participants on issues of state importance. Consensus-building is essential in the legislative process, especially where lawmakers come from different political parties and have divergent views on certain issues. It provides an opportunity for participants to understand each other’s perspectives and arrive at a common understanding that can lead to the formulation of effective policies and programmes.
It is essential for Anambra State government to hold such retreats involving the executive and legislature and even include the judiciary in the future to foster sustainable democratic governance in the state. It should be encouraged to continue because it is important in promoting dialogue, collaboration, and cooperation in addressing critical challenges facing the state and in engendering the “Anambra Agenda” of a liveable and prosperous smart mega city where ndị Anambra and others will love to live, work, relax and enjoy.
Written by EJIKE ABANA
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