The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA Zambia) says freedom of information (F.O.I) bill is vital in promoting democracy, transparency and good governance.
Speaking during a MISA consultative workshop for Members of Parliament (MPs) on the need for a freedom of information act in Lusaka today, MISA Zambia Chairperson Fr. Frank Bwalya said it was sad that the F.O.I bill that was drafted 15 years ago has not yet been enacted.
Fr. Bwalya said the Media is saddened with the manner in which government has been
consulting on the F.O.I bill because there were reports that government had circulated
a discussion paper among selected individuals and institutions for their input
ignoring the Media.
He refuted government claims that the F.O.I which became operational in the United
Kingdom is causing problems saying there was evidence that the act has brought benefits to that country and the UK government is happy.
Speaking at the function Lusaka Lawyer Patrick Matibini said the provision of
adequate information would lead the public to participate more effectively although
indirectly to the process of policy making and governance.
Dr. Matibini said access to public or official information enhances the enjoyment of
freedom of expression which is an indispensable element in the successful working of
government.
He said the F.O.I bill is potentially an important tool to redress the imbalance in
power and effective supervision of the executive branch of government by both the
legislature and the public.
And Livingstone Member of Parliament Sakwiba Sikota said the F.O.I bill would present
better opportunities to MPs to get information than even questions raised in
parliament in certain cases.
Mr. Sikota who is also United Liberal Party President said a good F.O.I bill will give
time limits within which information should be made available with adequate
sanctions for obstructing the act because government would not be in a position to
defer answering or providing information as they sometimes do in parliament.
And Press Association of Zambia (PAZA) Vice President Amos Chanda said the absence
of a FOI law places a lot of information necessary for democratic dispensation
outside the public domain.
Mr. Chanda said that the F.O.I is not exclusive to journalists but only seeks to
acquire quality information to pass on to the public so they can make informed
decisions on a wide range of national issues.
He said there is need for a mass movement that must speak for the interests of all
Zambians on the importance of the F.O.I.
ZANIS
