The recent political upheaval in Bangladesh has brought about significant changes in the country’s governance. With the induction of an interim government led by Nobel laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus, there is renewed hope for the effective implementation of the Right to Information (RTI) Act. This law, if utilized to its full extent, has the potential to bring about systemic change in governance and promote transparency and accountability in public offices.
One of the key attributes of the RTI Act is its ability to foster interaction between citizens and public officials. By allowing citizens to request information from government offices, the law establishes a direct line of communication and reminds officials that they are under public scrutiny. This interaction was previously impossible under the Official Secrets Act, which was in place before the enactment of the RTI Act.
The RTI Act, also known as the sunshine law, aims to shine a light on government activities and provide citizens with access to relevant information. By doing so, citizens can assess whether government offices are fulfilling their duties and operating within the laws of the land. The act emphasizes transparency, accountability, and good governance as essential elements for a functioning democracy.
Unlike other laws, the RTI Act mandates that public offices must promptly respond to citizens‘ information requests. This requirement holds public officials accountable and makes them more responsive to the needs of the people. By empowering citizens to hold their government accountable, the law paves the way for transparent and accountable governance.
Prof Yunus’s call for unity and the establishment of peace, justice, freedom, non-discrimination, and equality in the country aligns well with the objectives of the RTI Act. The youth, who played a significant role in recent protests, are encouraged to utilize the law to bring about systemic changes in governance. Their organizational skills and determination can be invaluable in this new endeavor.
To effectively use the RTI Act, the youth must understand its provisions and processes. By requesting information from government offices, citizens can establish a direct connection with officials and hold them accountable for their actions. The act provides a mechanism for citizens to appeal if their information requests are not fulfilled, ensuring that public officials are held to a high standard of transparency and accountability.
In conclusion, now is the time for the youth of Bangladesh to lead the way in using existing laws to build a better country. By leveraging the provisions of the RTI Act, they can promote transparency, accountability, and good governance in public offices. With their courage and sense of national responsibility, the youth have the potential to drive positive change and create a more transparent and accountable government for the benefit of all citizens.