(UDHAYAM, COLOMBO) – President Maithripala Sirisena said that he is very happy that RTI became a reality during his tenure and said that this will greatly help to maintain accuracy and accountability.
He made these comments today (17Th Feb) at the official ceremony granting the Right to Information to the public. President said that RTI is all about transparency and we passed the RTI act as we want every act of the government to be transparent and accurate.
Minister of Parliamentary reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilaka said that the discussion about RTI was first started by late Minister Dharmasiri Senanayaka. Minister said that rather than criticizing the RTI act it would be better if shortcomings can be shown to strengthen the act.
Deputy Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Karunarathna Paranavithana requested people not to spread wrong ideas about RTI but use it for the betterment of the people.
Director General Department of Government Information Dr.Ranga Kalansooriya said that we need proactive disclosure of information and added that they are planning to select the best website and award prizes.
The public can audit the officers of the state with the RTI. The hand book for information officers will be issued end of March said the Advisor to the Minister on the RTI act Piyatissa Ranasinghe.