Ghanaian citizens were recently empowered with vital knowledge about their constitutional right to access public information during a live television sensitization program aired on Royal Television (Rtv) on April 11, 2025. The interactive broadcast was led by three seasoned Right to Information (RTI) Officers Mr. Emmanuel Asare from the Oforikrom Municipal Assembly, Miss Janet Gaisie of the Atwima Kwawoma District Assembly, and Mr. Samuel Agyemang Duah of the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council. The officers used the platform to demystify key provisions of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989), linking it directly to citizen empowerment and community development.
The televised discussion focused on Article 21(1)(f) of the 1992 Constitution, which guarantees every Ghanaian the right to access information held by public institutions. The officers emphasized that Act 989 operationalizes this constitutional right, enabling citizens to formally request and obtain public information with legal backing. They explained that access to information is not merely a right but a catalyst for promoting transparency, accountability, and active participation in democratic governance, especially at the local level.
In practical terms, the RTI officers outlined how citizens can file formal requests for information, noting that institutions are mandated to respond within a specific timeframe. They highlighted that through informed citizen engagement, communities can better monitor developmental projects, influence decision-making processes, and hold duty bearers accountable. However, they also discussed the law’s built-in limitations, referencing sections 5 to 16, which exempt certain sensitive categories such as national security and public safety from disclosure, thus, measures meant to safeguard the broader public interest.
As the program concluded with a strong call to action, citizens were urged to make responsible use of the RTI Act and to actively engage RTI Officers for guidance in navigating the process. The officers reiterated their commitment to supporting the public and emphasized that a well-informed populace is key to ensuring transparent governance and sustainable community development across the country.
