This book presents case-studies in accountable government and the management of public funds, with particular reference to the multi-party political systems of Botswana, Jamaica, Sri Lanka and Zambia under the Third Republic. Criteria for judging accountability are set out, and the role and influence of political leadership, elections, parties, parliaments, interest groups, the media and external donors are explored. Conclusions take account of the comparisons which are drawn with the experience of single-party regimes in Africa and Asia.

JOHN HEALEY has been Research Fellow at the Overseas Development Institute, London, since 1990. Previously he was Chief Economist at the British Overseas Development Administration, 1984-90. He has worked in Asia and travelled widely in developing countries and is co-author of Democracy, Governance and Economic Policy and other books and articles on development economics and aid.

WILLIAM TORDOFF is Professor Emeritus of Government at Manchester University. He has had long experience of teaching African Politics and of administration working at the Universities of Ghana, Dar es Salaam and Zambia as well as the University of California. His publications include Government and Politics in Africa, Government and Politics in Tanzania, and he is editor and co-author of Politics in Zambia, Administration in Zambia and co-author of Third world Politics: A Comparative Introduction.