CEMESP Hosts Panel Discussion on Right to Know

The Independent Information Commission of Liberia, in collaboration with the Center for Media Studies and Peacebuilding (CEMESP), on Wednesday October 2, 2024, hosted a program to commemorate the International Day of Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) at Monrovia City Hall.

The event brought together stakeholders, policymakers, media practitioners, and civil society actors to highlight the importance of access to information in fostering transparency, accountability, and good governance in Liberia.

The program featured a panel discussion on three key topics related to access to information.

The panelists included Cllr. Alphonso Zeon, Head of Corporate Communications at the Central Bank of Liberia; Cllr. Lamii Kpargoi, Member, Office of the Ombudsman, Republic of Liberia; and Madam Cerue Konah Garlo, a specialist in women’s access to information.

The panelists provided insights into the current state of access to information in Liberia and how it impacts economic development, governance, and gender equality.

CEMESP Executive Director, Malcolm Joseph, moderated the panel discussion. In his opening remarks, he emphasized the value of freedom of information in ensuring an informed citizenry. Reflecting on Liberia’s leading role in advocating for the global recognition of the right to information, Joseph highlighted how the country’s commitment was instrumental in the United Nations’ declaration of September 28 as the International Day of Universal Access to Information.

He noted that Liberia was among the first African countries to enact a Freedom of Information law, underscoring the country’s dedication to promoting openness and transparency.

Cllr. Alphonso Zeon spoke on the Role of the Media and civil society in promoting transparency and accountability using the Liberian freedom of information.

He emphasized the importance of financial transparency and access to economic information. He lamented on how the media and civil society can make use of the Liberia Freedom of information law.

Cllr. Lamii Kpargoi, from the Office of the Ombudsman, spoke on the topic, “Accessing The Impact Of Liberia’s Freedom Of Information Law Challenges And Prospects”.

He discussed the legal framework of Liberia’s Freedom of Information law and its practical application. He stressed the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms to ensure that public institutions comply with requests for information. Kpargoi also addressed the challenges that citizens face in accessing government-held information and urged for greater public awareness of their rights under the law.

Madam Cerue Konah Garlo brought attention to the gender disparities in access to information in Liberia. She highlighted how women, especially in rural areas, often face barriers in obtaining vital information that affects their rights, health, and livelihoods. Madam Garlo advocated for gender-sensitive policies to ensure that women have equal access to information, which she argued is crucial for empowering them and fostering inclusive development.

In addition to the panel discussion, several notable personalities delivered brief remarks. The Chairman of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission Cllr, Alexandra Zoe commended the progress made in promoting transparency but called for more robust actions to combat corruption, which she said is often fueled by the lack of access to information.

The Chairman of the Law Reform Commission Cllr. Boakai Kanneh also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the legal frameworks that support access to information in Liberia.

The program was also graced by the presence of the ECOWAS Ambassador to Liberia, Madam Josephine Nkrumah who underscored the regional significance of access to information in promoting peace, security, and democracy in West Africa.

The Ambassador emphasized ECOWAS’ commitment to supporting member states in upholding transparency and freedom of information as essential pillars of good governance.

The Independent Information commission of Liberia through its Commissioner, Togar Hodges lauded the collaboration with CEMESP and other partners, noting that the event marked another step forward in Liberia’s journey toward greater transparency and accountability. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all Liberians, regardless of gender or location, can access information that impacts their lives.