By Makutu Manneh
Commissioners for the Information Commission (ATI) were yesterday, 5th August 2024 sworn in.
The swearing ceremony, held at the State House, was presided over by the Vice President.
The National Assembly passed the ATI law in 2021 and the commission will have an oversight function to implement the ATI Law.
Speaking at the ceremony, Vice President Muhammed B.S Jallow, described the newly established Information Commission as a significant journey towards ensuring transparency, accountability, and free flow of information in the country.
He said the Commissioners are the guardians of the ATI Act 2021 as their appointments demonstrate the confidence and trust bestowed on them by the government.
“I am very much aware that the responsibilities bestowed on you are huge and the challenges ahead are massive, however, I am convinced that with your diverse expertise, experience, demeanor, and support from the government, you will emerge victorious in this noble crusade,” he said.
VP Jallow added that the government is committed to providing the commission with the resources and the institutional backing needed to fulfill its mandate effectively.
He said the work of the commission will be crucial in empowering citizens with the information they need to hold their leaders accountable as well as participate meaningfully in their democracy.
Neneh MacDouall-Gaye, the Chairperson of the ATI Commission, assured that they will work with impartiality and diligence as they know the responsibility is huge.
“We will ensure we work with the government, civil society, press, and the public as access to information is for everyone,” she said.
She added that access to information is all about open governance, democracy, and citizen participation as well as reducing misinformation and disinformation and other issues that promote good governance.
Other members of the Commission are: Bai Emil Touray, a former GPU President; Babucarr Cham, former General Manager of City Limits Radio, John Charles Njie- former Chairman of TANGO and Ya Amie Touray-a legal practitioner.
