We have got to include all the voices in our democracy. That's how we preserve democracy, that's how we build accountable government, that's how you build responsive government.

I would rather talk about what I learnt from the whole process. Public participation is critical in ensuring social cohesion and development

We need different voices in government—not for the sake of different voices, but because it actually makes a difference in policy.

the government should embark on effective public educational programs in schools and tertiary institutions, educating people about how Parliament works, the importance of participation, and how they can engage with their representatives and hold them accountable.

Above all, when your voices are heard in government, it's far more likely that your basic needs will be met. And that’s why reform must reach the daily lives of those who are hungry and those who are ill, and those who live without electricity or water.

When we don’t pay close attention to the decisions made by our leaders, when we fail to educate ourselves about the major issues of the day, when we choose not to make our voices and opinions heard, that’s when democracy breaks down. That’s when power is abused. That’s when the most extreme voices in our society fill the void that we leave. That’s when powerful interests and their lobbyists are most able to buy access and influence in the corridors of power –- because none of us are there to speak up and stop them.

Participation in public life doesn’t mean that you all have to run for public office -– though we could certainly use some fresh faces in Washington. (Laughter and applause.) But it does mean that you should pay attention and contribute in any way that you can. Stay informed. Write letters, or make phone calls on behalf of an issue you care about. If electoral politics isn’t your thing, continue the tradition so many of you started here at Michigan and find a way to serve your community and your country –- an act that will help you stay connected to your fellow citizens and improve the lives of those around you.

We have always wanted community input. We have to meet people where they are and we want them to tell us how their government can work for them not the other way around

Participation by the public in decision-making, which requires full information, transparency and accountability, is essential to the democratic order. Parliaments have a special responsibility to oversee the adoption of national budgets and to monitor the actual use of appropriations so as to ferret out corruption.

She also stated that the legislature would continue to involve the public in the processes and programmes of the legislature through public hearings, petition processes, sector parliaments, sittings of the house and initiatives such as Taking the Legislature to the People."

Within our system of government every American has a right and duty to help shape the future course of the United States. Thoughtful criticism and close scrutiny of all government officials by the press and the public are an important part of our democratic society. Now as in our past, only the understanding and involvement of the people through full and open debate can help to avoid serious mistakes and assure the continued dignity and safety of the nation.

I want to contribute to the orderly functioning of Parliament and ensure decisions are made in a reasonable time. I aim to make Parliament a place where people can be heard

I want Parliament to be a place where people can voice their concerns, a place where they can be heard

The minority must have involvement in society. You can have different cultural practices that you accept. But if you are going to adopt democracy in government, then the government itself must allow the minority to be heard.

A truly democratic country must proactively inform the public so that the public can decide on spending priorities.