What is the role of shareholders in corporate governance?

Shareholders play a vital role in corporate governance primarily by influencing management decisions and holding them accountable. This accountability is facilitated through several avenues, such as voting on key issues during annual meetings, including the election of the board of directors, which is responsible for overseeing management. Shareholders can advocate for their interests and ensure that management acts in alignment with the company's mission and values.

Additionally, shareholders have the power to propose changes to company policies and practices, which can impact how the organization is governed. They can also engage in dialogue with management, pushing for transparency and responsible decision-making, which ultimately strengthens the governance structure of the corporation.

The other options do not accurately represent the shareholders' role. While shareholders may have a voice in strategic matters, they do not engage in the routine daily operational decisions, direct financial planning strategies, or conduct internal audits – tasks that are typically the responsibility of management and operational teams.