AFAG LAUDS FREEDOM OF INFORMATION BILL AND SUPPORTS AG’s QUEST TO STRENGTHEN INSTITUTIONS

The Alliance For Accountable Governance (AFAG) is happy to congratulate His Excellency the President and the cabinet of the Republic of Ghana for approving the Freedom of information Bill for onward transmission to Parliament for debate and passage. AFAG see the initiative as positive and urge government to continue the good work started by its predecessor.

Even though AFAG had expected the approval much sooner, considering the Bills significance to our national development aspirations. We are nevertheless happy to note that the approval by cabinet is a giant step closer to a freedom of information law.

Article 21 (1) (f) of the 1992 constitution provide for "individuals right to information" which is subject to such qualification and laws as are necessary. The fact that cabinet has approved awaiting parliamentary and presidential accent, add up to the fact that Ghana's democracy will be the envy of at least Africa. This gesture, AFAG believe will foster transparency and accountability in public affairs.

AFAG also notes with satisfaction the Attorney General's launch of investigations into the alleged disappearance of funds from an Account of the Local Organizing Committee of the "Ghana 2008", African Cup of Nation's Tournament. We hope that all the persons connected to the investigations will freely co-operate with a fair process to determine the whereabouts of the said funds.

In the long-term, AFAG believes that a full and thorough review of the processes and procedures of our nation's sports administration are necessary to rid it of the unenviable notoriety for scandal. In our view, the Sports sector of our country is too important to be left to its own devices and this recent scandal, being the third major scandal, after the "MUNTAKA AFFAIR" and the "HEARING IMPAIRED FOOTBAL" competition in Australia is one too many.

AFAG urge government to deal with all findings within the emblems of the law irrespective of political coloration.

Issued for /on behalf of AFAG

Henry Haruna Asante 024 827 4646

Kwabena Bomfeh Jnr 0244535472 / 0285088015