Deliberative public engagement in Ghana: Consultation processes and outcomes during the privatisation of water

The existing body of knowledge suggests that deliberative public engagement in major public sector reforms improves service users’ participation and maximises successful outcomes. However, limited research has addressed public involvement during the privatisation of essential services within developing countries. Based on a case study research method in the context of Ghana, this paper highlights how ineffective consultation and a lack of deliberative engagement during water privatisation led to public protests and limited benefits for service users. The paper extends existing debates by showing how political dynamics, social status, and power can impact the modes and outcomes of privatisation within developing countries. The conclusions call for a more nuanced understanding and better use of deliberative processes during privatisation within developing country contexts.