Board Chairman of the RTI Commission (RTIC), Justice (Rtd) Kwesi A. Ofori Atta, has emphasized the significance of the Right to Information (RTI) law as a powerful tool in combating corruption and encouraging active public engagement in governance.

He noted that the RTI law has evolved into a fundamental measure for fostering transparency in governance and public discussions, serving as a mechanism to enhance democracy and good governance.

Justice (rtd) Atta, who said this in Wa during a stakeholders’ forum on the RTI law, indicated that: “This law has been made for all of us and everybody can take advantage of it.”

Representatives from public and private institutions, Civil Society Organizations, Persons with Disabilities, and students gathered for a forum addressing the theme: “Your Right to Access Information and the Role of the Right to Information Commission Under Act 989.”

This forum was organized as part of the RTIC's initiatives to enlighten the public about the clauses within the RTI law and empower them to assert their right to information as stipulated by the Act.

“If this law will help us bring down corruption or even expose corruption and promote transparency, all of us must participate.

“Like a double-edged sword, the RTI has the potency to create an avenue for transparency and accountability that engulfs every individual and entity. So, the government, state authorities and entities are brought under the microscope of scrutiny by affording people the chance to ask for information”, he added.

He stressed that all individuals and stakeholders in Ghana carry the responsibility of ensuring the effective implementation of the RTI Act 2019 (Act 989).

Yaw Sarpong Boateng, Esq., the Executive Secretary of the RTIC, during his presentation, encouraged the public to utilize the RTI law to request information from public institutions and to report instances where those institutions fall short.

He highlighted that individuals requesting information under the RTI law weren't obligated to provide reasons for their inquiries. However, he emphasized the responsibility of using the acquired information in accordance with the law.

Boateng clarified that every public institution should have an updated repository managed by an RTI Officer, accessible to any Ghanaian upon formal request under the RTI law.

He also specified that certain information is exempt from public access under the RTI law, citing reasons such as national security, policy planning, law enforcement, international relations, economic interests, and privileged information.

Peter Maala, the Upper West Regional Coordinating Director, representing the Regional Minister, pledged the support of the Regional Coordinating Council and the Municipal and District Assemblies in ensuring the effective implementation of the RTI law.

During the session, some participants inquired about the establishment of an RTIC office in the region to enhance access to its services.

The participants were encouraged to serve as ambassadors for the RTIC, spreading awareness and education about the RTI law throughout the region.