1. In my site what determines the importance of involving a stakeholder in research activities, first is the nature of study (i.e. vaccine trial or HIV cohort with out much intervention), we sometime check the location/ geographical area where we recruit participants , also the area or the aspect from which she/he will represent the community e.g from women groups or youths or religion just to make sure that we have a wide range of stake holders who can contribute , advice or comment on the study procedures or design in connection to the target population.
2. I agree with you sometimes managing multiple partners is difficult especially when you have people with difficult personalities among the stakeholders. However in my experience if we have to deal with two groups that might not agree on some easily we normally conduct discussion in two separate groups and when we have an agreement that is okay with both side then we tell the to choose one or two representatives from the groups who will participate either in a bigger group discussion or in a seminar or meeting.However in most cases we have managed to sustain partnership with out much strain.
