On August 30, 2024, the Juaben Municipal Assembly’s Right to Information (RTI) officer conducted an enlightening sensitization session for Juaben Inter-Party Dialogue Committee (IPDC) members at the Juaben Conference Hall. This event coincided with the inaugural meeting of the IPDC, organized by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE). Attended by a diverse group of stakeholders, including local police, Electoral Commission representatives, political party members, individuals with disabilities, traditional leaders, religious organizations, and media personnel, the session aimed to emphasize the importance of the RTI Act in promoting transparency and accountability within the municipality.
Mr. Kojo Adjormadoh, the Municipal Director of the NCCE, opened the session by highlighting the critical need for all participants to understand the RTI Act 989 to execute their roles effectively. Following his introduction, Mr. Prince Agyei-Mensah, the RTI officer, delved into the key components of the act. He discussed its primary purpose, outlined the procedures for requesting information, clarified what constitutes exempt information, and explained the review processes and potential sanctions for non-compliance. This thorough overview provided attendees with a solid foundation for understanding how the RTI Act can be leveraged to enhance governance.
The interactive nature of the session encouraged IPDC members to actively participate, leading to discussions about the necessity of more community outreach initiatives on the RTI Act throughout the Juaben municipality. Attendees expressed a strong desire for increased awareness campaigns to ensure that citizens are informed of their rights under the RTI law. This feedback underscores the importance of community engagement in promoting a culture of transparency and civic responsibility, reinforcing the RTI’s role in empowering citizens.
In closing, ASP Samuel Asare, the meeting’s chairman and Juaben Police Commander, conveyed his gratitude to the RTI officer for sharing invaluable insights about the RTI Act. The session not only enhanced understanding among IPDC members but also strengthened the collaborative spirit among diverse stakeholders committed to fostering transparency in Juaben. By promoting ongoing dialogue and outreach, the RTI Act can become a cornerstone for informed citizen participation and accountability in governance, ultimately contributing to a more robust democratic framework.