By: HASSAN OSMAN KARGBO
Sierra Leone’s Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC) has celebrated its 10th anniversary on Tuesday, 15th October 2024, marking a decade of dedication to promoting transparency and accountability in disseminating information in the country.
According to the chairman, Dr Ibrahim Seaga Shaw, whilst addressing the press at the Ministry of information and Civic Education press conference held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Commission have received a lot of requests from the general public. He said In the first year of monitoring in 2019, there were 112 cases, which increased to 144 in 2020 with 122 being successful. In 2021, the Commission recorded 269 FOI requests, with 245 being successful. He added that the introduction of the Annual Compliance Report (ACR) in 2022 led to a significant increase in requests, with 13,107 FOI requests and a success rate of 10,237. In 2023, there were 19,426 FOI requests with a 90% success rate.
Dr. Shaw noted the international achievements of RAIC, including their participation in the International Conference of Solutions for Commissioners and their role in the African Network of Information Commissioners. He mentioned that Sierra Leone was one of the six countries that co-sponsored the declaration of Universal Access to Information Day on September 28th each year.
He said the Commission is facing some challenges, such as the culture of secrecy and the need for public servants to respond to information requests. Dr. Shaw mentioned their collaboration with HRMO and the Civil Service Commission to review the Civil Service Code and emphasized the importance of journalists taking advantage of the law to request information.
He further stated that RAIC will penalize any public authority that refuses to provide information, as they have the power to do so under Section 7 of the Act. He highlighted the actions and sanctions they have taken against non-compliant authorities and encouraged journalists to submit their questions in writing if an interview is denied.
RAIC extended its celebration in the provinces where RAIC’s Southern Regional office in Bo city also celebrate their 10th years success drawing various stakeholders, members, and supporters to reflect on the achievements, challenges, and overall impact of the commission.
In their Bo celebration, the Southern Regional Commissioner, Behai Yorma Idriss, noted that the commission has worked tirelessly to facilitate the dissemination of information, develop regulations and codes of practice, and raise awareness about citizens’ right to access information.
Commissioner Idriss further revealed that, the RAIC has achieved significant milestones, including the publication of open data reports, formulation of open data policies, establishment of an open data council, and garnering recognition at both national and international levels.
Noting that, despite facing challenges such as limited resources, legal complexities, and awareness gaps, the commission has remained steadfast in its commitment to fostering a culture of transparency and good governance in Sierra Leone.
Commissioner Idriss acknowledged the progress made by the RAIC in promoting accountability and transparency while emphasizing the importance of continued support from donor organizations to address existing challenges effectively.
