BASL urges President to strengthen Right to Information Commission

Colombo, Dec. 20 (Daily Mirror) - The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has urged President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to take immediate steps to ensure the provision of adequate and independent financial resources to the Right to Information (RTI) Commission, stressing that such measures are essential to safeguard its autonomy and ability to effectively discharge its mandate.

In a letter addressed to the Head of State yesterday (19), the BASL expressed deep concern over the challenges currently faced by the RTI Commission, particularly severe understaffing and inadequate financing. 

The BASL noted that these deficiencies directly undermine the Commission’s independence and its capacity to function effectively.

The BASL reiterated that the Fundamental Right to Information is a crucial safeguard in promoting transparency, accountability and due process. 

It emphasised that this Constitutional right and its proper application must be protected, safeguarded and further developed in the wider interest and wellbeing of the nation.

The RTI Commission, established under the Right to Information Act No. 12 of 2016, plays a vital role in safeguarding the citizens’ Constitutional right to access information under Article 14A of the Constitution. 

The BASL underscored that the independent functioning and accountability of the Commission are therefore of paramount importance. Under Section 12(1)(a) of the Act, the BASL is entitled to nominate a member to the Commission, making the Association a principal stakeholder in its operations.

Meanwhile, the BASL has strongly opposed any proposed amendments to the Right to Information Act that would curtail the citizens’ right to information guaranteed under Article 14A of the Constitution.

“We emphasise that any proposed amendment to the Act or to the functioning of the Commission must be preceded by due consultations, including with the BASL as a principal stakeholder, and with the general public,” the letter stated.

The BASL’s letter was signed by its President Rajeev Amarasuriya and Secretary Chathura Galhena.