By: Joseph Kerkula
The Independent Information Commission (IIC) of Liberia has reported a significant decline in the implementation of the country’s Freedom of Information (FOI) laws.
Presenting the Commission’s 2024 audit findings at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT) press briefing on Tuesday in Monrovia, Commissioner Joash Hodges revealed that out of 103 government ministries and agencies assessed, only 23 have appointed Public Information Officers, as mandated by the FOI law.
Commissioner Hodges further noted that only 82 of the entities assessed currently maintain functional websites—another key requirement for facilitating public access to information.
In response to these gaps, the IIC has announced a two-day intensive FOI awareness, compliance, and records management training.
The training will among other things target departmental and sectional heads of various government institutions.
According to Commissioner Hodges, the initiative is aimed at enhancing understanding of public rights to information and strengthening compliance with FOI regulations across ministries and agencies.
