Month: December 2023

In a bid to strengthen transparency and accountability in the nation, the ongoing Media Capacity Enhancement Programme, organized by the Ministry of Information, took a significant step forward with a focus on the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2019 (Act 989).

Yesterday, December 19, 2023 at the University of Media, Art and Communications (UniMAC), the Executive Secretary of the Right to Information Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., shed light on the importance of the RTI Act. He emphasized the crucial role journalists play in promoting an informed society and ensuring government accountability.

During the event, George Sarpong Esq., the Executive Secretary of the National Media Commission, discussed Media Law and Journalism Practice, with a highlight on the RTI Law. His comprehensive presentation shed light on the legal framework journalists must operate within while championing their profession.

Importantly, the dialogue between journalists present and those joining online was highly interactive. Journalists seized the opportunity to pose relevant questions to the speakers, gaining further clarity on the implementation and implications of the RTI Act.

The RTI Act, enacted in 2019, guarantees citizens’ access to information held by public institutions. With this legislation firmly in place, journalists can uncover truths, hold power accountable, and play a vital role in the nation-building process.

This Media Capacity Enhancement Programme serves as a significant platform for journalists to equip themselves with the knowledge and tools necessary to fulfill their journalistic responsibilities effectively. By familiarizing themselves with the legal framework and leveraging the RTI Act, journalists can act as the vigilant watchdogs of society, ensuring that the public’s right to know is protected.

As the programme continues, it is anticipated that journalists will emerge with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with the RTI Act as a powerful tool to deliver unbiased news and contribute to the overall development of the nation.

The Right to Information Commission (RTIC) has ended the year on a high note with its 2023 Nine(9) Lessons and Carols service and End of Year Party. The event, which was held at the Commission’s office in Airport West Residential Area on Thursday, December 14, 2023, was attended by members of the governing board, staff, family, and friends.

The service, which was moderated by Rev. Charles Tandoh and officiated by Rev. Adjei Mensah, featured two choirs, the RTIC Choir and the Candle Light Choir. The beautiful renditions of traditional carols and readings from the Bible served as a reminder of the significance of the season and the importance of faith in our daily lives.

The event also provided an opportunity for the Commission to recognize and appreciate the hard work of its staff over the past year. Some staff members were awarded for their exceptional service and dedication to the cause of promoting the Right to Information in the country.

In a brief remark by the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., reminded the staff and attendees to embrace the spirit of Christmas, which is one of love and kindness. He emphasized the importance of showing compassion and empathy to others, especially those who are less fortunate. He encouraged everyone to share the little they have with others, as this is the true essence of the festive season.

As we end the year and look forward to the new one, let us not forget the true meaning of the season being Faith, Hope, and Love. The RTIC’s 2023 Nine(9) Lessons and Carols service was a beautiful reminder of these values.

Ghana took a significant stride towards enhancing transparency and accountability with the implementation of the Right to Information (RTI) Act. To assess the progress made in the past four years, the Ministry of Information, in partnership with the RTI Commission and the Information Services Department, organized a highly informative public forum at the British Council in Accra on 13th December, 2023.

The event began with a warm welcome address from Mrs. Charlotte Morgan-Asiedu, the Chief Director of the Ministry of Information, highlighting the significance of the RTI Act in promoting democratic values and ensuring citizens’ access to information. Subsequently, Hon. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the Minister for Information, shed light on the achievements and challenges encountered during the implementation process.

One crucial message reiterated by the Minister was that the right to information is fundamental and should not be treated as a privilege. He urged Heads of Public Institutions to release information when requested, unless it falls under exemptions specified in Act 989.

A panel discussion comprised of Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq. (Executive Secretary of the RTI Commission), Zakaria Tanko Musah (Lecturer/ Private Legal Practitioner), Dr. Winnifred Nafisa Mahama (Head of Access to Information Division) and Hon. Alhaji Ben Abdullah Banda Esq.(Presidential Coordinator, Zongo and Inner Cities Development Secretariat), provided valuable insights on Ghana’s journey in implementing the RTI Act (Act 989). The discussion was moderated by a Lawyer and Media Practitioner, Samson Lardi Ayenini. Attendees had the opportunity to pose questions, ensuring clarity and addressing any doubts regarding the Act.

Miss Oboshie Sai-Coffie, Presidential Advisor on Media and Strategic Communication, praised both the RTI Commission and the Ministry for their efforts in ensuring the successful implementation of the RTI law in Ghana. She acknowledged the positive impact the Act has had on fostering a culture of transparency and accountability.

In his closing remarks, David Owusu Amoah, Director of the Information Services Department, reiterated the importance of embracing the principles underlying the RTI Act. He emphasized that access to information plays a pivotal role in promoting good governance, public participation, and accountability.

The event yielded an opportunity for stakeholders, including Members of the RTI Commission led by Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori Atta, to reflect on Ghana’s achievements and challenges in implementing the RTI Act. The forum showcased the government’s commitment to transparency and encouraged citizens to exercise their right to access information, ultimately bolstering democratic principles.

With the continuous efforts of the Commission and its partners, Ghana is poised to witness a more transparent and accountable system.