Who can dare to ask the rules

 Political reforms focused on a citizen-centric mindset are essential and widely discussed globally. While politics often operates within bureaucratic systems, politicians are uniquely positioned to question existing rules for change. But relying solely on political actors remains uncertain and unpredictable.

Citizens can challenge the status quo through practical engagement. When they have digital access to essential services, like market prices, government schemes, upcoming policy changes, they gain the ability to hold decision-makers accountable. If citizens can see, track, and respond to real-time data through open dashboards or digital platforms, policy reform becomes embedded in daily life. A farmer no longer needs to protest for better prices—they can advocate through data and collective voice.

This is where a participatory approach becomes critical. A participatory process involves citizens directly in decision-making—through feedback loops. This approach builds ownership and empowers people to “dare to ask the rules,” because they are not just observers—they are active contributors.

To activate this system, a catalyst is needed. That catalyst can be entrepreneurs—and organizations with entrepreneurial mindsets—who design inclusive platforms that make participation meaningful.

But can any government officials play the catalytic role?