Month: February 2024

As part of a fact-finding mission on Ghanaian Parliamentary Operations by the National Democratic Institute (NDI) in partnership with the House of Democracy Partnership (HDP), a delegation from NDI and HDP visited the Right to Information Commission on February 22, 2024. The visit aimed to deepen the delegation’s understanding of the information landscape in Ghana, current threats to transparency, and how government institutions are working to promote access to public information and also allow HDP, NDI, International Republican Institute (IRI) and U. S. Congressional staff to learn more about the internal operations, relationships with outside organizations like the RTI Commission.

The Executive Secretary for the Right to Information Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., and the General Manager for Policy, Planning, Budgeting, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Mr. Kofi Amoah Sarpong, welcomed the delegation on behalf of the Commission and engaged them in a productive discussion about the Commission’s efforts since 2020 to implement the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989).

During the meeting, the delegation had the opportunity to learn about the Commission’s strategies to enhance public awareness of the right to information, streamline its processes, and establish regional offices to facilitate information access across the country. These efforts exemplify Ghana’s commitment to strengthening transparency and promoting good governance.

Ghana has made significant strides in recent years to improve access to public information, and the visit by the NDI and HDP delegation offers an excellent opportunity to showcase these advancements.

As Ghana continues to prioritize transparency and access to public information, engagement with international institutions like the NDI, HDP, and the International Republican Institute (IRI) provide valuable insights and expertise. The fruitful exchange of ideas between the delegation and the Right to Information Commission will undoubtedly contribute to Ghana’s democratic development and strengthen its reputation as a leader in promoting accountability and transparency in governance.

On February 15, 2024, another step towards promoting transparency and accountability was taken as the International Republican Institute (IRI) Ghana, led by its Resident Programs Director, Sunday Afolabi Alao, paid a working visit to the Right to Information (RTI) Commission. This meeting aimed to explore an important partnership that would empower Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and media houses at the regional level to understand and use the RTI law to exact greater accountability from public institutions and improve governance in Ghana.

IRI Ghana proposed a collaboration with the RTI Commission to identify and develop the capacity of CSOs, ensuring that they possess the necessary skills to access vital information. In addition, media personnel from various media houses would be engaged and trained to effectively disseminate information regarding the process of accessing public data. The partnership would entail sensitizing government agencies about the importance of providing information to the public and fostering public understanding about government affairs.

The Executive Secretary of the RTI Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., emphasized that the Commission already implements extensive sensitization initiatives to promote the RTI law. However, he also acknowledged that partnerships, such as the proposed one with IRI Ghana, would significantly extend the Commission’s outreach efforts to a wider audience. He wholeheartedly assured IRI Ghana of the Commission’s commitment to collaboration.

IRI Ghana’s partnership with the RTI Commission sets a commendable example of collaboration towards a common goal. By building the capacity of CSOs, training media personnel, and sensitizing government agencies, the initiative will actively promote the principles of transparency and accountability across Ghana.

This timely collaboration will not only strengthen the implementation of the RTI law, but also contribute to the overall democratic development of the nation. By empowering citizens with knowledge and facilitating the flow of information, this partnership lays the foundation for informed decision-making and an engaged citizenry.

The collective efforts of the RTI Commission, International Republican Institute (IRI) Ghana, and other stakeholders will undoubtedly pave the way for an improved governance system, where citizens are empowered, informed, and actively participate in shaping their nation.

In a significant move towards enhancing transparency, combating misinformation and disinformation, as well as empowering investigative journalists in the fight against corruption, the Right to Information Commission of Ghana held discussions with representatives of the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Ghana on 7th February, 2024. The discussions focused on dovetailing some programmes of the Commission with outlined policies of the EU toward building a more transparent and accountable democracy in Ghana.

During the meeting, the Commission, led by its Executive Secretary, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq. emphasised the importance of securing financial support from the EU to engage with Parliament on the Commission’s Draft Legislative Instrument (L.I.). This L. I. aims to bolster the Commission’s existing framework and ensure its effectiveness in advocating for the right to information. With the EU’s backing, the Commission endeavours to demand greater government accountability and promote access to information will be strengthened.

Recognizing the looming challenge of misinformation and disinformation, especially during the upcoming 2024 election and future electoral processes, the Right to Information Commission sought to forge a partnership with the EU. By collaborating, both entities can jointly combat the spread of false information and promote accurate and reliable sources of news. This collaboration holds immense significance for upholding transparency, ensuring fair democratic processes, and fostering an informed electorate.

Additionally, the meeting also touched on the important issue of fighting corruption by empowering investigative journalists. This highlights the European Union and the Commission’s recognition of the vital role that journalists play in exposing corruption and holding public officials accountable. By supporting and empowering investigative journalists, the Commission can contribute to the overall fight against corruption in Ghana.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the Right to Information Commission, including its Executive Secretary, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., Francis Wayem, and Michael Sakyiama, along with the European Union in Ghana, comprising Anna Lixi, Head of Section, Jeanne Piere, and Joseph Bogrebon Allan.