Govt urged to expedite action on freedom of information bill

Accra, May 2, GNA - The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), on Friday asked government to demonstrate its commitment to probity, accountability, open government and respect for human rights by ensuring the immediate passage of the freedom of information bill.

A statement signed by Miss Anna Bossman, Acting Commissioner of CHRAJ, and issued in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day, which falls on May 3, said such legislation would also help to strengthen institutions of governance to play their role of ensuring transparency and good governance as well as deepening democracy. "This year's theme "Media Dialogue and mutual understanding", compels us all to reflect on the tenets of tolerance and acceptance of each other in spite of our differences. It reminds us that there is unity in diversity and that we all have a role to play in the nation building", It said.

The statement said journalists and the media had enormous power to shape attitudes and perceptions, and this power must be used responsibly with the sole aim of making this nation a better place for everybody. It urged media houses to set up human rights desks and appoint focal persons to report and discuss issues pertaining to human rights. "This way, they would contribute immensely towards human rights promotion and invariably protecting the vulnerable in society especially women and children" the statement said. It commended the Ghanaian media for the pivotal role it played in ensuring the conduct of successful general election in December last year.