In a democratic society, governmental transparency and accountability are non-negotiable principles. It is on this premise that open government structures and tenable governance practices are built. Not only does this enhance an equitable distribution of resources and viable policy outcomes, but it also reinforces public trust in governance systems and institutions.

Governmental accountability, though multifaceted, primarily involves transparent functioning and communication, a sound system of accountability measures, robust government oversight, and stringent anti-corruption mechanisms. It is about consistently upholding the public interest and instituting measures that ensure every decision or action taken by the government entities is open to scrutiny and encompasses fiscal responsibility.

Transparency, a foundational pillar of governmental accountability, emphasizes the availability and accessibility to information regarding government operations. An open government initiates visibility, predictability and comprehensibility of its actions, thereby reducing uncertainties in public life while promoting informed citizen participation. Digital platforms and data frameworks have been instrumental in making this process more streamlined and efficient.

While transparency concerns the disclosure of information, accountability ensures that government officials — elected and appointed — are answerable for their actions. An effective system of accountability measures emphasizes the concept of responsibility towards one’s duties and actions. These measures, which may include periodic government auditing and inspections, cultivate an environment of answerability and consequentiality, preventing misuse of power and public resources.

Equally important is government oversight, an important checkpoint for democracy. Oversight bodies maintain regulatory control over government functions, ensuring adherence to strict ethical norms and protocol. They act as watchdogs to prevent unethical practices and curb corruption within government institutions. For these bodies to function effectively, it is critical to maintain their independence and equip them with adequate powers to investigate and penalize misconduct.

All these factors combined serve as a strong frontline defence against anti-corruption. Implementing anti-corruption strategies is crucial to demonstrate the government’s commitment to its citizens for fair, ethical practices. UNDP and Transparency International defines Corruption as ‘the misuse of public power for private gain’. To curb this, appropriate anti-corruption legislative measures must be proactive, and reactive mechanisms must be reactive, combining punitive, preventive and educational approaches.

Another crucial facet of government accountability is fiscal responsibility. This principle involves regular and public disclosure of government’s financial information, adroit financial planning and ensuring that the government’s operations are conducted cost-effectively, maximizing value for the taxpayer’s money.

Ultimately, these components of accountability are hinged on the enhancement of public trust. A transparent and accountable government fosters a sense of reliability among the citizens, encouraging their active role in civic duties and discourse.

Despite the criticality of government accountability, it is often a challenging ideal to achieve. Numerous factors like bureaucratic opacity, lack of resources, systemic corruption, and insufficient legal provisions can impair true accountability. For this reason, the collective efforts of policymakers, governmental bodies, citizens and civil organizations would be paramount in ensuring a transparent and accountable government.

Tools like the Open Government Partnership (OGP) and initiatives like the International Budget Partnership (IBP) are fostering such a global commitment towards open governance and ensuring governmental accountability. They provide a unique platform for domestic reformers to make their governments more open, accountable, and responsive to citizens.

In conclusion, a democratic government’s fundamental tenet lies in its ethical standard, transparency, and accountability to its citizens. These elements work in synergy to promote an open government where fiscal responsibility is practiced, corruption is minimized, audits and inspections are regular, and most importantly, the public trust is upheld. Society should and must demand and participate actively in enforcing this level of accountability, as it forms the backbone for the smooth functioning of any democratic nation, large or small.