RAJSHAHI, – Speakers at an advocacy meeting today unequivocally called for enhancing transparency and accountability in all the service-delivery fields for strengthening good governance and rule of law for the greater interests of the public in general.
They viewed that wide-ranging enforcement of the Right to Information (RTI) Law, National Integrity Strategy and Annual Performance Agreement can be the vital means of attaining the cherished goal.
Bangladesh Enterprise Institute (BEI) organized the meeting under the Capacity Building of Civic Society and Media Workers for Enhancing Transparency and Accountability Project at Parjatan Motel in Rajshahi city.
Divisional Commissioner Dr Humayun Kabir and Deputy Commissioner Abdul Jalil addressed the meeting as chief and special guests respectively with BEI President Humayun Kabir in the chair.
Civil Surgeon Dr Quiume Talukder, President of Rajshahi Chamber of Commerce and Industries Muhammad Muniruzzaman and Social Worker Shaheen Akter Rainy also spoke.
The speakers observed that successful implementation of the RTI act can play a vital role towards supplementing the government efforts of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
Terming the access to information as vital they viewed full-length implementation of the RTI act with unhindered flow of information by all government and non-government organizations concerned needs to be ensured for expediting development and ensuring good governance everywhere in the society.
Dr Humayun Kabir said SDGs basic objective to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all, adding its key commitment is “no one will be left behind”.
He said the present government under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has adopted diversified steps to attain the goals within stipulated time.
“Implementation of RTI act has become indispensable for the sake of establishing good governance in the society and enhancing transparency and accountability in all tiers of public services,” Dr Kabir defined.
Taking part in the open discussion, other speakers said proactive disclosure of information regarding all development works at grassroots level can ensure proper utilization of resources and put a check on corruption.
They also observed that the designated officials of the information-providing government and non-government organizations have a vital role to play.
