Wroskhop on:Balochistan Right to Information Act 2021
Khuzdaar, Balochistan
20 March 2023

Transparency International Pakistan organized a workshop on March 20th, 2023, aimed at educating local government representatives, teachers, lawyers, and journalists about the Balochistan Right to Information Act 2021. The workshop was attended by 45 participants and focused on providing information about the roles of the Public Information Officer and the Information Commission, as well as proactively disclosed information under the law. Attendees were also taught how to write RTI applications and file complaints with the Information Commission.

The Balochistan Right to Information Act 2021 is a legal framework that grants individuals the right to access information held by government bodies or public institutions. Local party members, including Abdul Wahid PPPP member Ahmed Nawaz Councilor, Abdul Khaliq Pandrani Councilor, Muhammad Akbar Jattak Councilor, and Sher Muhammad Shawani, as well as chairmen and councilors of municipal communities from nearby UCs, also attended the program.

The workshop began with a recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by Mr. Zahoor Mehar’s highlighting the work of Transparency International Pakistan, specifically their efforts to promote transparency and accountability in Balochistan. Meer Bashir Ahmed Nichari discussed the issues of district Khuzdar and informed the audience that he filed a complaint against some departments for not working well. He emphasized the role of youth in raising their voice through social media and raising awareness about the issues of their area.

Another speaker, Mr. Abdul Khaliq Pandrani, explained that access to information laws empowers citizens, and it is now their responsibility to use them. Mr. Musa Khan Mengal highlighted issues in Khuzdar, specifically those related to health and education. He informed participants about the Balochistan RTI Act and explained the procedure for filing an RTI application and complaint with the Information Commission when an application is denied.

During the Q&A session, Chairman Abdul Wahid raised concerns about departmental backlash when reporting corrupt practices and asked whether TI Pakistan would provide assistance in such situations. All questions were satisfactorily answered, and participants thanked TI Pakistan for organizing the workshop on Baluchistan Right to Information Act before dispersing with good wishes.