2025, Vol. 7, Issue 4, Part D

Author(s): Oghale Maris Imouokhome

Abstract: Legislative transparency is an integral part of democratic governance which promotes accountability, public trust, and citizen engagement. Given the ongoing global quest for increased accountability and transparency in government, examining the connection between public trust and legislative transparency becomes crucial, particularly in emerging democracies. This study therefore examined the relationship between legislative transparency and public trust by drawing comparison between Nigeria and South Africa. The study followed a systematic review method in which qualitative data were extracted from existing studies and were analysed using thematic analysis. The comparative analysis revealed that South Africa has stronger institutional frameworks supporting legislative transparency, notably through the Promotion of Access to Information Act (2000), structured citizen engagement platforms, and regular publication of parliamentary proceedings. These mechanisms foster higher levels of public trust and engagement in the democratic process. Conversely, Nigeria faces significant barriers to legislative openness, including weak enforcement of the Freedom of Information Act (2011), opaque voting processes, and limited public participation in legislative affairs. These gaps contribute to declining public confidence in governance, political disengagement, and increasing perceptions of legislative corruption and inefficiency. For Nigeria to bridge the transparency gap and rebuild public trust, it must implement stronger legislative accountability measures, enhance public access to parliamentary transactions, and institutionalise citizen engagement mechanisms, as evident in the South African context.

DOI: 10.33545/26646021.2025.v7.i4d.509

Pages: 281-293 | Views: 1472 | Downloads: 15

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