On September 12, 2024, Richard Asante Odei, the Right to Information (RTI) Officer for the Lower Manya Krobo Municipal Assembly, held an insightful training session at the Municipal Assembly Conference Hall. This event aimed to educate heads of departments about the vital importance of the RTI Act 989, which is anchored in Ghana’s 1992 Constitution (Article 21) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 19). By promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance, the RTI Act is a cornerstone for fostering participatory democracy.
During the session, Odei highlighted the significance of the RTI Act as a transformative law that empowers citizens by ensuring their right to access information held by public institutions. He emphasized that the effective implementation of this act relies heavily on the commitment of public officials, who are tasked with maintaining accurate records and providing reliable information. Such practices are essential in fostering trust between citizens and their government, ultimately nurturing a culture of accountability.
Odei also discussed the responsibilities of public institutions, including the necessity to submit annual reports to the RTI Commission and to publish relevant information on their websites. He outlined the procedures for requesting information, detailing any associated costs and the exemptions for certain groups. Additionally, he explained the various exemptions within the Act and the review processes available for citizens, ensuring they are informed of their rights and the avenues available to seek recourse. The training prompted engaging discussions, with attendees raising numerous questions that underscored the need for further sensitization on the RTI Act throughout the municipality. The consensus among department heads was clear: enhancing awareness and understanding of the RTI Act is crucial for fostering a culture of openness and transparency, thereby reinforcing the foundations of good governance in Lower Manya Krobo.
