September 28, 2007

While observing the Right to Know (RTI) Day that is celebrated around the world on September 28, Campaign for Freedom of Information (FOI-Pakistan) demanded the improvements in FOI ordinance and its rule in line with the international best practices and legislations. FOI-Pakistan also emphasized the vigorous practice of the available laws on FOI.

While highlighting the recent shortage of sugar and wheat flour and other man-made disasters like collapse of bridge at Northern Bypass Karachi, FOI-Pakistan, emphasized that the most effective way of pre-empting such situation is exercising Right to Information. Neglect on the part of citizens to monitor market practices and development projects make citizens vulnerable. Therefore there is a greater need to use and practice RTI and citizens and citizens groups need to go beyond advocacy and start using laws

Secretary General, CRCP that hosts and run FOI-Pakistan pointed to the slow response of NWFP & Punjab governments in enacting FOI legislation and criticized them of not being responsive to the concerns of transparency.  He mentioned that citizens and citizens groups are using various provisions of FOI laws where such legislation is available. But NWFP and Punjab governments have failed to provide enabling policy and legislative framework to ensure transparency and participation of citizens in the conduct of administration by providing them right to information. He impressed upon the governments to take effective steps to enact FOI legislation in the two provinces.

Concomitant to legislative improvements is the issue of citizens capacity to make use of available provision under different laws like FOI Ordinance 2002, provincial legislations on FOI and Local Government Ordinance 2001. Secretary General, Mr. Abrar Hafeez particularly mentioned the capacity deficit on the part of citizens to take advantage of whatever space is available under existing laws. He underscored the importance of practicing Right to Information to ensure that it does not remain a mere addition to the statute books rather it contributes to the culture of transparency.

 

Transparency in Market and Administrative practices Demanded: FOI-Pakistan