On December 8, 2024, St. Gabriel Catholic Church in Suhum hosted a vital sensitization session on the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2019 (ACT 989), highlighting the importance of the law in promoting transparency and accountability in governance. The RTI Act is a constitutional right designed to empower citizens, ensuring they have access to information from public institutions and fostering a more open, democratic society. The event was aimed at educating the local community on their rights and the benefits of accessing public information, contributing to a well-informed and active citizenry.
The sensitization program was a significant step in implementing the RTI Act at the grassroots level. With an emphasis on understanding how to access information legally, the event provided the people of Suhum with the tools necessary to engage with public institutions effectively. Participants were given an in-depth explanation of how to request information, the processes involved, and the legal protections that ensure transparency within public administration. By demystifying the law, the session empowered citizens to hold public officials accountable and demand greater transparency in governmental activities.

Throughout the session, the congregants were encouraged to embrace their rights to information and become advocates for open governance. The benefits of transparency were underscored, including the potential to reduce corruption, improve public service delivery, and strengthen democratic processes. The RTI Act offers individuals a powerful tool to scrutinize government actions and ensure that the public interest is prioritized. As such, participants were urged to spread awareness within their communities and actively use the RTI Act to foster a culture of accountability.
The event also featured an interactive Q&A session where attendees asked various questions related to the RTI law, seeking clarity on its application and scope. The responses provided valuable insights, addressing concerns about potential challenges citizens might face in accessing information. The session not only educated the Suhum community but also ignited a passion for civic engagement, equipping individuals with the knowledge needed to demand transparency and safeguard public resources for future generations.