Administrative reform is a major demand by the public and represents a significant challenge to those concerned with better performance. It is amazing that so many of our conversations and the articles in our press are in fact complaints. In fact, everybody complains of deterioration, corruption, poor performance, inefficient employees or ridiculously long procedures in government departments. Many columnists — and I as well — are encouraged to write about these matters based on directives and instructions from King Fahd, the Crown Prince and Prince Sultan. When we write asking for improved performance in the country’s administrative procedures, we aim also to attain positive reactions from those responsible for managing public entities.
Administrative reforms naturally require sincere efforts, dedication and restructuring of existing methodology, styles and the application of modern management skills and concepts. It is frustrating to see business that should be completed in minutes taking weeks! Not only frustrating but pointless. Why is it that nobody cares about improving life or of making other people’s lives easier?
The reasons that compel hundreds of ordinary citizens to seek high-ranking officials’ assistance to solve their problems are well-known. The TV pictures showing Saudis of all ages and social levels lining up to meet the Crown Prince at his weekly open house is evident of what I am talking about. The majority are seeking intervention by higher authorities in order to push forward business which has been obstructed by red tape, official negligence or bureaucracy. Countless citizens have had to bear the pain of losses as a result of so primitive an administrative system. Sadly, none of them was ever compensated for damages or losses.
