The Right to Information Commission in Ghana marked a significant milestone in its RTI Month 2023 celebration by convening a stakeholders’ engagement session on the 14th of September 2023 to discuss the Draft Legislative Instrument (L.I) at the British Council in Accra.

The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including Civil Society Organizations, Government Officials, Representatives of the National Council of Persons with Disability (NCPD), and members of the public.

The event commenced with a warm welcome from the Board Chairman of the Commission, Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori-Atta. His words set the tone for a productive and inclusive discussion.

Under the guidance of the Board chairman, Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori-Atta, and the Executive Secretary, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., the stakeholders actively participated in deliberations on the proposed L.I. This crucial instrument aims to strengthen the right to information in Ghana, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.

During the session, participants provided valuable inputs and recommendations on various aspects of the L.I. Discussions revolved around the scope of information covered, procedures for accessing information, manner of access, application reviews, penalties for non-compliance, proactive disclosure, and effective implementation mechanisms among others.

The Commission assured stakeholders that their valuable feedback would be carefully evaluated and integrated into the final version of the L.I. This collaborative approach will contribute to the development of a robust legal framework that upholds the right to information in Ghana.

The vote of thanks was given by Nana Kwame Duah, a Board Member of the Commission, who expressed gratitude to all participants for their time and dedication to the cause of transparency. The closing remarks were given by Mrs. Elizabeth Asare, Deputy Chairperson of the Commission, who reiterated the importance of collaboration and encouraged everyone to continue working together for a more accountable and open society.

By involving stakeholders in the formation of legislation, the Commission is ensuring that the interests and concerns of all parties are addressed. This engagement sets a positive precedent for future discussions and reinforces the importance of dialogue and collaboration in building a stronger democracy.

The stakeholders’ engagement showcased the dedication of the Right to Information Commission in fostering transparency and citizen empowerment. It exemplified the Commission’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that diverse perspectives were considered in shaping the final L.I.