By Dorothy Yeboah
Parliamentary Caucus on OGP has urged the RTI Commission to stay focuse on its mandate, to foster transparency and accountability in governance while driving development.
The OGP emphasized the importance of the Right to Information (RTI) Commission’s role in ensuring citizens have access to information.
They furthur urged the RTIC not to relent on its mandate as citizens right to information plays a pivotal role in good governance.
The call was made by the Chairman of the Caucus who doubles as the Member of Parliament for Ho West, Hon. Emmanuel Kwesi Bedzrah. Mr. Bedzrah stated this when he led members of the OGP on a fact- finding visit to the RTIC at Dzorwulu, Accra.
The visit highlights the importance of collaboration between the RTIC and stakeholders in promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
Mr. Bedzrah maintained that unimpeded access to information must be given the needed attention by all stakeholders. ‘Access to information is a fundamental human right and the RTIC must remain committed despite challenges’ he stressed.
During the meeting it came to light that the RTIC is working to implement the National Action Plan,(NAP-4) focusing on administrative and institutional arrangements for Act 989.
According to the Executive Secretary of the RTI Commission, Ms. Genevieve Shirley Lartey, commitments under (NAP-4) have been reprioritized under NAP-5 including the development of Information, Education and Communication(IEA) essentials, aimed at building public capacity on RTI Law and the passing of regulation for the Legislative Instrument.
However, she cited funding and accommodation as major setbacks hindering its operations. ‘These challenges undermine the smooth implementation of activities and plans’, she added
A member of the Governing Board of the Commission, Mr. Chris Dougan, contributing to the discussion explained that arrangement was far advanced for members of the new Board to be apprised with what was contained in the draft LI before it would be re-submitted to Parliament for consideration.
In response to the issue of Public awareness creation, Mr. Kweku Sersah-Johnson, Technical Advisor, RTIC said the Commission has a Comprehensive Communication Strategy encompassing all aspects of information dissemination and education.
‘The purpose of the National Action Plan is to improve government transparency and accountability’ he elaborated. It also involves strengthen public participation in governance and promote open data and anti-corruption efforts, he stated
The Commission’s efforts include passing regulations for the Legislative Instrument and promoting public awareness through a Comprehensive Communication Strategy.
Members of the Parliamentary Caucus expressed support, emphasizing the importance of access to information for good governance.
OGP Members present at the meeting included Mr. Alexander Akwasi Acquah, Vice Chairman, Dominic Napare, Shaibu Mahama, Adelaide Ntim and Kaakyire Asira Gyasi, Assistant Secretary, OGP Caucus.
The RTIC also had in attendance Mr. Kofi Sarpong, Ms Kate Swanzy, Mr. Staphen Owusu, Mr. Michael Duodo-Sakyiama, Miss Audrey Korlekuor Odjeawo and Mr. Baffour Eugene.
