By Brenda Kayo:
Information and Communications Technology Minister Shadric Namalomba has directed government institutions to strengthen compliance with provisions of the Access to Information (ATI) Act, saying appointing information officers alone is not enough to guarantee citizens’ access to public information.
Namalomba says institutions need to establish proper record management systems, proactively disclose information, maintain updated information manuals and respond promptly to requests for information.
He said this at the Annual Media and Access to Information Conference held in Lilongwe City.
“True compliance requires institutions to establish effective record management systems, proactively disclose information, maintain updated information manuals, respond promptly to information requests and create a culture of openness,” Namalomba said
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He also called on controlling officers, chief executive officers, district commissioners and heads of institutions to ensure that annual ATI compliance reports are prepared and submitted within the required timelines.
Malawi Human Rights Commission Director of Civil and Political Rights Peter Chisi said access to information was a fundamental pillar of democratic governance.
“MHRC remains committed to working with the government, instructions and other stakeholders to promote openness and democratic governance,” Chisi said.
On his part, Media Council of Malawi Board Chairperson Jolly Ntaba said Malawi had good policies that would help in promoting access to information.
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He, however, said policy implementation was a challenge.
The conference was held under the theme ‘Upholding Information Integrity in The Digital Age: The Role of Access of Information in Addressing Information Disorder’.
