Staff Reporter :
Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has urged a comprehensive overhaul of the Information Commission to protect it from partisan influence.
The organization views this reform as crucial to building a “New Bangladesh” that guarantees freedom of speech and unhindered access to information.
In a press statement on Friday, coinciding with the International Day for Universal Access to Information 2024, TIB emphasized the importance of moving away from past practices of withholding information.
Instead, they advocated for the right to information as a vital tool for serving the public.
TIB outlined a 13-point set of recommendations, including the timely amendment of the Right to Information (RTI) Act of 2009, to ensure universal access to information, greater public participation, and improved transparency.
Dr. Iftekharuzzaman, TIB’s Executive Director, stated, “The extraordinary optimism generated by our youth, following their unprecedented sacrifices and the fall of the authoritarian regime, has sparked a renewed hope for rebuilding a ‘New Bangladesh.’
Freedom of speech, the right to dissent, and the unrestricted flow of information are integral to this vision.”
He further remarked, “Ensuring the free flow of information is fundamental to our belief in creating a transparent, accountable, and corruption-free Bangladesh.
The previous authoritarian regime’s downfall was driven by the systematic manipulation of information, the creation of false narratives, and the suppression of free expression and dissenting opinions.
TIB urges the interim government to prioritize free speech and the right to information as essential components of this new era.”
Dr. Iftekharuzzaman also highlighted the normalization of attacks, harassment, and even death threats faced by those seeking information through legal channels.