RTI Strengthening Citizens-State Ties, Says PIC Siddiqui
APP
Islamabad: PIC Chief Information Commissioner(CIC) Shoaib Ahmad Siddiqui emphasized that the fundamental right to information, enshrined in Article 19-A of the Constitution of Pakistan, is enhancing the relationship between citizens and the government.
He stated that this right promotes transparency, accountability, and citizen empowerment.
Siddiqui made these remarks while announcing the winners of the Pakistan RTI Quiz Contest 2024, organized by the Pakistan Information Commission in collaboration with the Press Network of Pakistan, in celebration of the International Day for Universal Access to Information.
In a video message congratulating the quiz winners, he highlighted that this day marks a global commitment to ensuring everyone has an equal right to seek and share information.
He also noted that it provides an opportunity to review the Pakistan Information Commission’s progress in empowering citizens to access information held by public authorities.
Siddiqui lauded the Press Network of Pakistan for their successful collaboration in organizing a nationwide quiz contest aimed at raising public awareness, particularly among university students, journalists, and youth. He asserted that informed citizens are better positioned to make decisions in the best interest of Pakistan.
Sabahuddin Qazi, Chief Executive of the Press Network of Pakistan, noted that quiz contests are effective tools for learning and fostering community engagement.
He stated, “The Right of Access to Information Act, 2017, is indeed a landmark achievement in our national journey towards transparency, prosperity, and accountability.”
He also shared that the RTI Quiz Contest plays a vital role in building a knowledge-based society, empowering citizens to learn and exercise their fundamental rights.
The RTI Quiz Contest 2024 aimed to raise public awareness about the significance of the Right of Access to Information, a key driver for achieving the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG Goal 16, which promotes just, peaceful, and inclusive societies.
The organizers reported that a total of 2,511 entries were submitted nationwide, with 49.98% of participants being female. The contest also garnered interest from citizens in remote areas, including Burewala, Chitral, Daska, Mithi, Skardu, Quetta, and Azad Kashmir.
