Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has disclosed that over 1000 Right to Information (RTI) requests have been made since the passage of the RTI Act in 2019.
He revealed this during a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, May 10, 2023.
According to Oppong Nkrumah, there has been a significant increase in the number of requests for access to information over the past three years since the implementation of the RTI Act.
Out of the over 1000 requests, 838 have been granted, 47 have been rejected with 45 of them transferred.
This the Minister explained that despite the increase in the number of requests over the years, rejected requests have remained low, which he attributed to the technical support provided by the Access to Information Division (ATID) to public institutions.
"ATID provides technical support to public institutions to enable them to fulfil their obligations in granting access to information. When institutions take advantage of this, they avoid any compliant issues," he said.
Mr Oppong Nkrumah also disclosed that the RTI Commission (RTIC) has been granted prosecutorial powers by the Attorney General's office to prosecute offenders under the Act.
He further encouraged citizens to make use of the RTI Act, as it will further strengthen democracy in the country.
"The effective usage of the RTI Act will further strengthen our democracy, so we encourage all to play their part," he stated.
The Minister also revealed that his Ministry is working to improve the RTI application process by moving it online.
This move, he explained, will not only digitise the process of RTI application and processing but will also transform records management across public institutions in the country and serve as a central resource centre for RTI.
Latest Stories
-
Today’s front pages: Tuesday, November 5, 2024
4 mins -
Galamsey: Investigation into attack on Joy News’ Erastus Asare and colleagues already growing cold
35 mins -
Mahama promises construction of stadia in all 16 regions if elected
52 mins -
Dampare has transformed Police training school – Bawumia
55 mins -
America braced as two stark visions collide on election day
57 mins -
NAPO urges Ghanaians to support NPP’s vision for national development
1 hour -
About 95% of PWDs in Obuasi have source of livelihood – MCE
1 hour -
Immigration Service intercepts 54 gallons of fuel
1 hour -
Election 2024: Roman Fada selected as flagbearer for Ghana Freedom Party
2 hours -
Bawumia to launch Ghana’s credit scoring system on Nov. 7
2 hours -
Alan to combat galamsey with strategic youth-centred business model
2 hours -
Agona Swedru chiefs commit to ending child marriage within their jurisdiction
2 hours -
Sunyani Traditional Council endorses Bawumia – NAPO government
2 hours -
Adutwum defends double track in Free SHS, citing research and positive outcomes
2 hours -
‘Prevent and condemn illegal pressure on Judiciary’ – AG to GBA
2 hours