In a significant push for transparency and accountability within local governance, Richard Asante Odei, the Right to Information (RTI) Officer for the Lower Manya Krobo Municipal Assembly, conducted an important training session for all heads of department at the Municipal Assembly Conference Hall on September 12, 2024
The workshop centered on the Right to Information Act (Act 989), a fundamental piece of legislation pivotal to Ghana’s democratic framework. The RTI Act, rooted in Article 21 of the 1992 Constitution and supported by Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, assures citizens of their right to access information held by government bodies, thereby promoting effective public participation and government accountability.
During the session, Odei emphasized the RTI Act’s vital role in fostering a culture of transparency within public institutions. “Government agencies must not only keep comprehensive and accessible records but also actively facilitate the public’s ability to request and obtain information. This openness is crucial for building trust between citizens and their government,” he explained.
The training provided an in-depth look at the requirements of the RTI Act, including procedures for requesting information, associated costs, and the specific exemptions outlined in the law. Odei clarified that public institutions are mandated to submit annual reports to the RTI Commission, which should be freely accessible on their official websites. The session also highlighted the review mechanisms available for appeal and the importance of compliance with the Act’s provisions to maintain accountability. Attendees engaged in a lively discussion, expressing a unanimous need for greater awareness of the RTI Act within the community. Many department heads demonstrated their commitment to enhancing the implementation of the Act and called for ongoing sensitization efforts.
This feedback reflects a growing acknowledgment of the RTI Act’s pivotal role in community development, empowering citizens to hold government entities accountable. As Lower Manya Krobo moves toward a more inclusive and transparent governance system, the RTI Act stands as a key instrument for citizen engagement and oversight.
