The information commission has a chance to win back public trust

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On October 23, in an article published by The Daily Star, we welcomed the newly appointed information commissioners following over two years of uncertainty, and shared some…

On October 23, in an article published by The Daily Star, we welcomed the newly appointed information commissioners following over two years of uncertainty, and shared some thoughts on the tasks and responsibilities facing them. Then, at a seminar on October 29, Prof Nahreen Islam Khan, the chief information commissioner (CIC), delivered an address providing an encouraging basis for continuing that discussion. Speaking to grassroots Right to Information (RTI) practitioners, she described the commission as their “fellow campaigner” and placed citizens’ empowerment at the centre of its work.

The setting itself was significant. Prof Nahreen Islam, the first woman to hold that post in the country, chose to begin her tenure among people who use the law in their everyday struggles, and their experience can reveal more about the state of RTI than any formal institutional account.

Several of her comments and commitments merit attention: bringing the commission’s services closer to district and upazila residents, acknowledging submissions through mobile messages, increasing public awareness, consulting experienced practitioners, and establishing a research wing. These address difficulties long encountered by RTI users, while also providing a basis for sustained engagement between the commission and citizens.

Perhaps the most valuable part of her address concerned the purpose of RTI. She spoke of enabling people to move from being mere subjects to becoming conscious citizens with a sense of ownership of the state. Those who have worked with grassroots applicants will recognise how important this transformation is. A person who learns to question a public authority begins to understand that public institutions must answer to the people. The commission has an important role to play in bringing about this change.

The CIC’s assurance of impartiality is equally welcome. Asked whether the commission would stand with citizens or the government, she replied that it would be neutral.

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