Why is Parliament slow on Passing the Right to Information?

Ever since Cabinet announced the approval of the draft Bill in November 2009, many civil and media rights groups, unions and the like have called on Parliament to enact the Right to Information without postponement. By my research, I know Parliament first had a feel of the Bill on 5th February 2010 since then the Bill has been tossed here and there with no clear reason why it hasn't been passed. Many still have no idea on the existence of such right and Bill here in Accra- it may confuse rural folks more on hearing “Right to Information Bill” for the first time, this shows very little awareness has been created so far by all stakeholders especially on the part of our government for the general public to know, understand and demand their right to information.

According to article 21, section 1 (f) of the 1992 constitution of Ghana, “All persons shall have the right to information, subject to such qualifications and laws as are necessary in a democratic society” – this, our nation must uphold, how? By ensuring the smooth passage of the Right to Information Bill because time is running out. Why is Parliament slow on passing the Bill? When are we likely to enjoy our Right to Information to the fullest? What is the Attorney General's Department further doing to ensure the Passage of the Right to Information Bill? Where does the Ministry of Information come in here, and what role are they playing to ensure free flow of relevant information? What is government hiding? Could someone please make us understand the delay?

I believe government is fully aware of the relevance and benefits of an existing and full functioning Right to Information Law, it will:

1. Guarantee the provision of reliable information on the state of all sectors our nation's economy.

2. Enable citizens to be discerning and better understand decision taken by any government in power.

3. Empower citizens and make room for contributing our quota better to nation building.

4. Ease the “whistle-blowing” model, and help check all against corrupt acts that may divert the already scarce public resources into some pockets!

This and many more we shall enjoy, parliamentarians included, If and only if government is ready to spell-out why the passage has delayed, so as to consult relevant stakeholders and ensure the rapid enactment of the Right to Information. Nigeria and Liberia are presently enjoying the Right to Information or Freedom of Information Law- why can't we do same? On behalf of all citizens of Ghana especially young people, both cognizant and ignorant, I would like to ask two final questions, why is the process being delayed? When will the Right to Information Bill be passed? Also, what strategy is in place to educate people on the existence of a Right to Information Bill soon to be Law?

I call on Parliament to pass the Right to Information Bill to make all persons enjoy the Right to Information, in our attempt to strengthen our democracy to ensure transparency.

Cecil Ato Kwamena Dadzie (Salvage International)

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