The role of the African Charter on Values and Principles of Public Service and Administration in promoting good governance

Abstract

This article critically analyses the provisions of the African Charter on Values and Principles of Public Service and Administration from an interdisciplinary standpoint of law and public administration. It assesses the Charter's substance and its potential role in the promotion of good governance in Africa, subject to internationally accepted standards for good governance. Central to this approach is identifying probable legal, institutional and structural shortcomings, thus helping to set out useful guidelines required in facilitating the effective application and implementation of the Charter. Since there is a lack of track records and benchmarks concerning the Charter, the article seeks to give it substance and prominence. It aims to establish that the Charter can play a catalytic role in the promotion of good governance by requiring political commitment to the rule of law, effective implementation of state policy, enforcement of professional ethics, and adherence to sound ethical standards by public service agents. The envisioned public service governance should be an accountable and effective public administration that is based on a functional legal framework, efficient regulatory structures, and transparent systems for financial and legal accountability.