Information commission to enhance govt transparency – Theofelus
Access to information a cornerstone of democracy
The information commission should foster a culture of openness and accountability.
Information minister Emma Theofelus has proposed the establishment of an independent information commission to act as a guardian of transparency and ensure information is accessible and actively disseminated to those who seek it.
Theofelus made the proposition when she tabled the regulations for the Access to Information Act of 2022 in Windhoek on Tuesday.
The regulations are essential to ensure the effective implementation of the Act, which upholds the fundamental right of all citizens to access information held by public and private authorities.
Information is power
The minister said the mechanism will facilitate the flow of information and serve as a bridge between government and citizens, as well as between the private sector and the public.
“In a world where information is power, we must strive to democratise this power to ensure it flows freely and transparently between all stakeholders. [This commitment is a testament to our dedication] to fortifying the foundations of democracy and optimising our governance architecture,” Theofelus said.
Acknowledging information as the key to unlock the doors to progress and development, she indicated that access to information is the cornerstone of transparency and accountability within the democratic system.
“Access to information empowers citizens to hold their leaders accountable, ensures that decisions are made in the public interest and strengthens the trust between the government and the governed,” said Theofelus.
Accountability within public institutions
She added that one of the critical aspects outlined in the regulations is appointing an information commissioner and a deputy information commissioner – individuals who will play a pivotal role in overseeing the implementation of the
Access to Information Act.
“They will handle complaints, promote transparency and ensure accountability within public institutions. The appointment process must be transparent, independent and based on merit to safeguard the integrity of the access to information institution,” said Theofelus.
She stressed that by fostering a culture of openness and accountability, the information commission will play a vital role in promoting good governance and inclusive socioeconomic development.
This, in turn, will enable citizens to make informed decisions, encourage public participation in decision-making processes and enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of governance structures.
Theofelus made the proposition when she tabled the regulations for the Access to Information Act of 2022 in Windhoek on Tuesday.
The regulations are essential to ensure the effective implementation of the Act, which upholds the fundamental right of all citizens to access information held by public and private authorities.
Information is power
The minister said the mechanism will facilitate the flow of information and serve as a bridge between government and citizens, as well as between the private sector and the public.
“In a world where information is power, we must strive to democratise this power to ensure it flows freely and transparently between all stakeholders. [This commitment is a testament to our dedication] to fortifying the foundations of democracy and optimising our governance architecture,” Theofelus said.
Acknowledging information as the key to unlock the doors to progress and development, she indicated that access to information is the cornerstone of transparency and accountability within the democratic system.
“Access to information empowers citizens to hold their leaders accountable, ensures that decisions are made in the public interest and strengthens the trust between the government and the governed,” said Theofelus.
Accountability within public institutions
She added that one of the critical aspects outlined in the regulations is appointing an information commissioner and a deputy information commissioner – individuals who will play a pivotal role in overseeing the implementation of the
Access to Information Act.
“They will handle complaints, promote transparency and ensure accountability within public institutions. The appointment process must be transparent, independent and based on merit to safeguard the integrity of the access to information institution,” said Theofelus.
She stressed that by fostering a culture of openness and accountability, the information commission will play a vital role in promoting good governance and inclusive socioeconomic development.
This, in turn, will enable citizens to make informed decisions, encourage public participation in decision-making processes and enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of governance structures.
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