Mahama Inaugurates RTI Commission Governing Board: Key Details on Ghana’s Transparency Push

Published: November 10, 2025 | Discover how President Mahama’s inauguration of the RTI Commission Governing Board advances the Right to Information Act in Ghana, fostering governance transparency and public trust.

Introduction

In a pivotal move for democratic governance in Ghana, President John Dramani Mahama has inaugurated the seven-member Governing Board of the Right to Information (RTI) Commission. This event underscores the government’s commitment to the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989), which empowers citizens to access public information and promotes accountability. Chaired by Dr. James Asante, with Madam Christina Edmund as Vice Chairperson, the board includes key figures like Mr. Kobby Woyome, Madam Aba Edusah, Madam Angela Emefa Kpegah, Madam Shirley Lartey as Executive Secretary, and Mr. Chris Dugan.

The inauguration signals a renewed focus on transparency in Ghana’s public sector. For those searching for updates on RTI Commission Ghana or Mahama RTI Commission inauguration, this development highlights practical steps toward open governance. This article breaks down the event pedagogically, explaining the RTI framework, board roles, and broader impacts.

What is the RTI Commission?

Established under Section 35 of the RTI Act, the RTI Commission is an independent body responsible for implementing the law. It receives appeals, investigates complaints, and enforces compliance across public institutions, ensuring Ghanaians can request information without undue barriers.

Analysis

The inauguration of the RTI Commission Governing Board by President Mahama represents a strategic advancement in Ghana’s transparency ecosystem. During the ceremony, Mahama emphasized the board’s role in building public trust and accountability, aligning with the RTI Act’s core objectives. This step addresses longstanding challenges in information access, such as delays and denials by public bodies.

Dr. James Asante’s chairmanship brings academic expertise, given his background in governance studies. Madam Christina Edmund’s vice role complements this with administrative experience. Other members, including legal and civil society experts like Mr. Kobby Woyome and Madam Aba Edusah, provide diverse perspectives essential for effective oversight.

Context of RTI in Ghana

Ghana’s RTI Act was enacted in 2019 after years of advocacy by organizations like the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA). Prior to this, informal freedom of information practices existed, but the law formalized proactive disclosure and request mechanisms. The board’s formation fulfills statutory requirements, enabling the commission to operationalize these provisions fully.

Analytically, this inauguration coincides with global trends toward open government, as seen in indices like the World Justice Project’s Rule of Law Index, where Ghana ranks moderately in open government data.

Summary

President John Dramani Mahama inaugurated the RTI Commission Governing Board on November 10, 2025. The seven members are: Chairman Dr. James Asante, Vice Chairperson Madam Christina Edmund, Mr. Kobby Woyome, Madam Aba Edusah, Madam Angela Emefa Kpegah, Executive Secretary Madam Shirley Lartey, and Mr. Chris Dugan. Mahama highlighted its importance for accountability and access to information under the RTI Act, marking a key transparency milestone in Ghana.

Key Points

Practical Advice

For Ghanaians leveraging the RTI Commission, start by understanding how to file requests. Under Section 23 of the RTI Act, submit written applications to public institutions, specifying desired information. If denied, appeal to the RTI Commission within 14 days.

Step-by-Step Guide to RTI Requests

1. Identify the Public Institution: Target ministries, agencies, or local assemblies holding the information.
2. Submit Formally: Use the prescribed RTI form or letter, including your details and information sought.
3. Response Timeline: Institutions must respond within 14 days (extendable by 14).
4. Appeal Process: Escalate to the RTI Commission board for review; they can order disclosure or impose fines.
5. Track Progress: Use the commission’s portal or contact the Executive Secretary, Madam Shirley Lartey.

Citizens, journalists, and NGOs can now anticipate efficient oversight from this new board, enhancing transparency in Ghana governance.

Points of Caution

While the inauguration is promising, users should note potential hurdles. Exemptions under Section 11 of the RTI Act protect national security, personal privacy, and commercial secrets—requests in these areas may be denied legitimately. Avoid frivolous requests to prevent administrative overload.

Common Pitfalls

• Vague Requests: Be specific to avoid rejection.
• Fees: Reasonable copying fees apply; no charge for inspection.
• Board Independence: Though government-appointed, the board must remain impartial per the Act.
• Enforcement Delays: Historical backlogs may persist initially.

Comparison

Compared to the previous RTI Commission board (formed post-2019 enactment), this iteration under Mahama features refreshed leadership, potentially accelerating case resolutions. The prior board handled initial appeals but faced resource constraints, as reported in commission annual reports.

RTI in Ghana vs. Regional Peers

Ghana’s setup mirrors successful models like South Africa’s, positioning it ahead of Nigeria in proactive disclosure.

Legal Implications

The RTI Act, 2019 (Act 989), legally mandates the Governing Board’s establishment (Section 35). Non-compliance by institutions incurs fines up to 250 penalty units or imprisonment. The board can issue directives, conduct inquiries, and recommend prosecutions. This inauguration activates these powers, with implications for public officials denying information unlawfully. Mahama’s involvement aligns with constitutional duties under Article 21(1)(f) for information access.

Enforcement Mechanisms

Sections 75-78 outline offenses: willful denial carries penalties. The board’s role ensures verifiable enforcement, as seen in past rulings like the 2022 MFWA appeal victories.

Conclusion

President Mahama’s inauguration of the RTI Commission Governing Board is a landmark for RTI Commission Ghana, reinforcing the Right to Information Act’s promise of transparent governance. With Dr. James Asante at the helm and a balanced team, Ghanaians can expect stronger accountability mechanisms. This development not only builds public trust but also aligns Ghana with global open government standards. Stay informed and utilize RTI rights to demand transparency.

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