By Grace Q. Bryant
The Commissioner of the Independent Information Commission (IIC), Togar Hodges, has announced the Commission’s active involvement in preparatory activities for the upcoming International Day of Universal Access to Information.
This global observance is set to highlight the significance of access to information, a fundamental right enshrined in both national and international frameworks.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information, Culture & Tourism (MICAT) regular press briefing on September 17, Commissioner Hodges said the celebrations will kick-off on Tuesday, October 1, with a Freedom of Information (FOI) awareness campaign.
“This campaign will include building appearances and public engagements to emphasize the importance of access to information and citizens’ rights under the law,” he stressed.
According to him, On Wednesday, October 2, an official program will be held at the Monrovia City Hall, where President Boakai is expected to formally launch new initiatives aimed at improving compliance with the FOI law.
The Commissioner called on civil society organizations, government institutions, and the general public to join the celebration of International Day of Universal Access to Information, reiterating that access to information is vital for a functioning democracy and essential for fostering transparency and accountability across Liberia.
Commissioner Hodges highlighted that the FOI Law, passed 14 years ago on September 16, remains crucial for promoting transparency and accountability in Liberia.
The Commissioner noted that access to information is a fundamental right guaranteed by Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the African Charter on Human Rights, and Article 50© of Liberia’s 1986 Constitution.
These laws empower the public to be informed about government activities, ensuring that citizens can participate meaningfully in public life, scrutinize government spending, and hold authorities accountable.
The FOI Law grants the public the right to request and access documents and records held by government institutions and private entities that perform public functions or receive public funding.
Commissioner Hodges emphasized that all government ministries, agencies, and commissions must comply with the law, establishing internal mechanisms for handling information requests.
He maintained that public institutions are required to submit annual reports detailing the number of requests they have processed, the time taken, and the fees charged, ensuring full transparency.
Commissioner Hodges also spoke about challenges the Commission has faced in enforcing the FOI Law.
He further explained that from 2018 to 2023, limited budgetary support has hindered the Commission’s ability to conduct vital public awareness campaigns.
“When we took over at the Independent Information Commission, we inherited an institution struggling due to a lack of resources,” he stated. He added that public awareness is key to empowering citizens to utilize the rights under the law.
“Despite these challenges, the Commission has made significant strides, including signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Center for Media Studies and Peace building,” he disclosed.
He emphasized that the partnership, supported by the USAID Media Activity project, will enable the development of a functional website, social media platforms, and new training materials for the public.
He added that the FOI hubs in Liberia’s 15 counties will be reactivated and relaunched, allowing citizens in rural areas to access information more easily.
