Kathmandu: Minister for Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung has stated that the government is committed to implementing the right to information (RTI) in the country. During a program held at the Office of the President to mark the 18th anniversary of the National Information Commission, Minister Gurung emphasized the government’s dedication to ensuring citizens’ access to RTI and its effective implementation, highlighting the importance of policy-based and structural reforms.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Gurung acknowledged the existing weaknesses in the implementation of RTI and expressed the government’s readiness to revise the RTI Act in a timely manner. He stressed the necessity of making RTI systematic to uphold good governance, insisting that government and state bodies’ decisions should be transparent and accountable to the public.
Chief Commissioner Dr. Suresh Prasad Acharya also addressed the gathering, underscoring the Commission’s efforts to safeguard citizens’ right to information. He noted that the Commission has played a crucial role in promoting good governance and transparency.
Senior journalist Taranath Dahal, who was recognized at the event, expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of RTI implementation. Dahal, along with others, was honored for their contributions to advancing RTI. He received the Binaya Kasajoo Outstanding Prize, which included a purse of Rs 55,000 and a letter of appreciation.