What's the point in passing RTI law if you can't adhere to it? — MFWA quizzes Akufo-Addo

The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has questioned the point in passing the Right to Information (RTI) law if the presidency is not prepared to adhere to it.

Speaking on Accra-based Citi FM on Thursday, May 9, MFWA Executive Director Sulemana Braimah called on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to comply with the RTI, instead of merely touting its passage.

This comes after the presidency declined MFWA's request for the full KPMG audit report on the Ghana Revenue Authority's revenue assurance contract with Strategic Mobilization Limited, citing exemptions under the RTI law.

MFWA requested a copy of the comprehensive KPMG audit report on April 24, using the RTI Act.

However, the presidency responded that the report contained elements crucial to the President's deliberative process and was therefore exempt.

However, Mr. Braimah said “It is important to remind the president and the presidency that it is not just enough to tout your credentials as the one whose government passed the RTI law. It is not just about the passage of the law; it is about the effect of the law. It is about compliance with the law.”

He added, "So, what is the point in passing the law and saying well passing the law demonstrates your commitment to transparency and accountability when you are not prepared to comply with that same piece of legislation?"