Kathmandu: The National Information Commission (NIC) has recommended the government to amend the Acts and Regulations contravening with the Right to Information (RTI) laws. In its 16th annual report for the fiscal year 2080/81 BS, NIC has recommended amending the laws related to information to enhance access to information by removing legal inconsistencies and take the government towards openness.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the Commission has furnished a set of recommendations as officials of public agencies struggle to determine the extent of information disclosure under the new laws. The NIC has emphasized the urgent need for timely amendments to the right to information law. The report highlights a contradiction where one act mandates information sharing, while another threatens punishment for unauthorized disclosure, creating a deterrent for employees to provide information.
The NIC submitted a report containing 19-point suggestions to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Wednesday, urging the
government to ensure the protection, promotion, and regularization of the Right to Information. The Commission also expressed concern over the indifference of most political parties in adhering to the RTI Act’s provisions.
The NIC suggested political parties appoint public information officers as required by the RTI Act, proactively publish legally-stipulated information, and provide information promptly upon request. The Commission also called for measures to protect information seekers, noting that individuals seeking information have faced mistreatment and threats in some public agencies.
Furthermore, the report urged non-governmental organizations, particularly those working for human rights, to prioritize establishing the right to information. The NIC also highlighted a lack of adequate budget, which hampers its ability to fulfill its responsibilities, and recommended expanding the Commission’s scope by allocating sufficient financial resources and autonomy.
The Commission’s report pointed out that th
e NIC is weak in international ratings due to a lack of financial autonomy despite having autonomy on many issues. It suggested budget allocations should be based on the decisions of the Parliamentary Committee on the Right to Information, with input from the Ministry of Finance regarding the Commission’s budgetary requirements.
Additionally, the NIC proposed that public officials take an oath of transparency rather than an oath of secrecy to promote openness within government operations.