By: Mariama Njie
The Umbrella body of Gambian journalists, Gambia Press Union, in partnership with Civil Society Coalition has engaged government officials on access to information bill to help enlighten them more on bill.
The daylong help at the Baobab Holiday Resort brought together some of the communication officers from the ministries and among other participants.
Speaking at the event, Information Minister, Ebrima Sillah, said: “once the bill is enacted Gambia will be among the legal nation in west Africa that has enact access to information bill. The government is very committed to the principles of access to information to enhance the development process of this country.”
“When we were consulted about this important issue, we saw it has necessity that will help the government to deal with the mountains of rumors,” he added.
He urged information officers to make information accessible for the general public.
John Charles Njie, chairman of civil society Coalition on Access to Information, commended the Gambia Press Union for a job well done in pushing the access to information bill all the way to the parliament.
“We have been doing extensive sensitization throughout this country because we want them to be aware before it becomes a law. We are proud to say this is the first of its kind that a bill initiated from civil society has much-been endorse and accepted by the government and pass through parliament in the shortest time,” he said.
He therefore urged information officers to be proactive and not to allow the public to run after them for information, as it should be their collective responsibility to make information available.
“Now it is up to you to ensure that and support government in making sure information is accessible and disseminated,” he added.
