Culture of secrecy frustrating RTI Law –KON - The Chronicle News Online
The article highlights that Ghana’s Right to Information law faces significant implementation hurdles, primarily driven by an entrenched culture of secrecy within public institutions. Rather than embracing transparency, many government agencies exhibit reluctance to share data, often due to ignorance of the law or a deliberate desire to hide systemic failures. This behavioral resistance undermines the legal framework intended to empower citizens and journalists, suggesting that legislative passage alone is insufficient without a fundamental shift in institutional mindset. A critical operational barrier is the absence of specific regulatory instruments that would clarify the Act’s nuances. Without these details, ambiguity surrounds processes such as request processing timelines, creating confusion and delays. Furthermore, poor records management across state bodies complicates data retrieval, although technological solutions like online systems are being introduced to address these structural inefficiencies. These gaps hinder the practical application of the law, turning theoretical rights into difficult-to-exercise privileges. For open data advocates, this narrative underscores the vital importance of complementary regulatory frameworks and adequate resource allocation for transparency initiatives. The call for timely budgeting and strict accountability measures emphasizes that data availability depends on institutional willingness and enforcement capabilities. Ultimately, the article argues that true openness requires sustained political commitment and public engagement, positioning transparency as an ongoing cultural practice rather than a static legal achievement.
Source: thechronicle.com.ghPublished on 2023-12-15