ISLAMABAD: Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) is urging the government to consider comprehensive legal reforms aimed at strengthening the implementation of the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017.
According to a statement by Free and Fair Election Network, the current RTI framework, despite being progressive, is hindered by institutional inertia, ambiguous legal provisions, and weak enforcement mechanisms.
FAFEN’s policy brief, “Strengthening the Right to Information (RTI) in Pakistan,” released recently, notes that the absence of timely information from public bodies fosters misinformation and disinformation, contributing to political polarization. The organization stresses that enhancing the RTI legal framework is essential in the government’s efforts to counteract these issues.
As part of its “Countering Disinformation through Information” campaign, FAFEN has assessed federal ministries and divisions’ websites, revealing low compliance with the RTI Act, 2017. Similar evaluations are underway for provincial departments.
FAFEN advocates for greater independence and authority for the Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) to enforce RTI provisions effectively. It recommends that Parliament strengthen the legal framework by eliminating ambiguities and empowering the PIC beyond its current appellate role.
Proposed amendments include setting deadlines for proactive disclosures, digitizing records, expanding the scope of public records, and reforming the appointment and removal process for Information Commissioners. FAFEN also suggests mandatory compliance reporting by public bodies to the PIC.
The organization calls for a bipartisan committee to oversee Information Commissioners’ appointments, transferring responsibilities from executive control, and ensuring the Commission’s financial independence. This would enhance its role as an oversight body.
FAFEN highlights the importance of moving beyond raw data posting by public bodies. It suggests the PIC establish standardized, user-friendly formats, searchable databases, and clear summaries to improve accessibility.
Additionally, FAFEN recommends establishing a mechanism for exchanging national best practices to promote RTI objectives. Developing an online platform for filing and tracking public information requests will facilitate citizen engagement with RTI.
Acknowledging advancements in RTI legislation since 2002, FAFEN underscores its foundational role in promoting informed citizenship and bridging the trust gap between state and society. However, their assessment shows federal bodies disclose only 42 percent of required information, highlighting a gap between legal intent and implementation.