Syed Ali Shah:
Quetta – Despite the passage of the Right to Information (RTI) Act in February 2021, the Balochistan government has yet to establish an information commission, leaving a crucial law unenforced and hindering transparency in the province. This delay, now stretching into its third year, highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring citizens’ access to information—a fundamental right designed to promote good governance and accountability.
At a recent seminar, experts expressed deep concern over the lack of progress, noting that while other provinces moved swiftly to establish their commissions, Balochistan lags behind. This is particularly concerning given that Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti frequently emphasizes the importance of good governance, with the RTI commission being a critical component in achieving that goal. The absence of an operational commission in the province raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to transparency.
Participants at the seminar discussed the importance of the RTI law and emphasized that without an active commission, the law remains ineffective, depriving citizens of their right to obtain information on government activities. The discussion also underscored the need for civil society and media to increase pressure on the government to fulfill its obligations under the RTI Act.
The delay in Balochistan contrasts sharply with the situation in other provinces, where commissions were established but have yet to demonstrate their effectiveness. This further exacerbates concerns about governance and the willingness of authorities to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability.
As Balochistan continues to face significant governance challenges, the lack of a functioning information commission underscores the urgent need for action. The government must prioritize the establishment of this commission to ensure that the RTI law serves its intended purpose of improving governance and empowering citizens.
