The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has been fined GHS 50 000. The Right to Information (RTI) Commission imposed this penalty. The GNFS refused to release important reports. These reports detailed the Atomic gas explosion incident. They also covered a fire at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) building.
The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) made formal requests for this information. These requests were made under Ghana's RTI law. This law promotes public access to official records. Kwaku Krobea Asante, MFWA's Programme Manager for Independent Journalism, confirmed this. He stated the GNFS cited "third-party issues" as the reason for refusal. This blocked access to information about major public safety events.
This situation raises concerns about transparency in public institutions. Ghana's RTI law, passed in 2019, aims to ensure accountability. It allows citizens to request and receive information from government bodies. Refusals like this can hinder public understanding of critical events. The Atomic gas explosion in October 2017 caused widespread damage and loss of life. The GRA fire also had significant implications for tax collection and government operations.
Mr. Asante explained the GNFS's stance. He said the service claimed "third parties involved" prevented release. This argument was presented to the RTI Commission. The Commission's decision to fine the GNFS underscores the importance of compliance with the RTI law. It sends a clear message about the public's right to know.
The implications of this refusal extend beyond these two incidents. It suggests a potential pattern of non-compliance with the RTI law among some institutions. This can erode public trust. It also limits the ability of journalists and civil society groups. They use such information to hold authorities accountable. Future actions by the GNFS and other state agencies regarding information requests will be closely watched. This case highlights the ongoing need for robust enforcement of transparency laws in Ghana.