Freedom of Information Law and Policy
The Freedom of Information refers to the citizens’ right to official information held by the government, or private bodies that carry out public functions or when information concerns a citizen’s right. The right to information is an important human right necessary for the enjoyment of all other rights. The right to know among other things is integral to a meaningful democracy, it supports better public policy, it facilitates participatory development, promotes accountability of development projects and promotes environmental rights and prevents conflicts including conflicts over natural resources.
Since 2005, ILEG has been at the forefront of the campaign for a FOI Law in Kenya. A Civil Society Organizations’ coalition called the Freedom of Information Network (FOINET) was formed to lead the campaign. FOINET has held workshops and public debates to marshal support and from civil society and other stakeholders, organized the “Right to Know Day” on 28th September for the last three years which generates publicity on the need for freedom of information through media focus while at the same time informing the public of this important right and engaged Members of Parliament to lobby for their support.
All this effort has born fruit. On 7th February 2007, the government through the Ministry of Information invited stakeholders and the general public to a forum to make suggestions and input towards the final draft of the FOI policy. Another public forum was held on 27th May 2007 to review the final draft of the FOI bill. The two documents have now been forwarded to parliament for passing into law.
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