KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ emphasized the development of a culture that not only seeks but also provides information to combat corruption.
In a message sent to the 17th National Information Day event organized by the National Information Commission, PM Dahal stressed the need for legal provisions that encourage sharing information on topics such as bribery, delays, incorrect decisions, and lack of transparency in public institutions.
“The use of ‘blockchain technology,’ a global measure against corruption, needs to be explored. We must move away from the tradition of keeping personal information, including assets, of public office holders. Corruption can thrive due to the lack of public oversight of government activities and limited civil society access to state information,” the Prime Minister remarked.
Despite the existence of the Right to Information (RTI) Act for a considerable time, the PM lamented that citizens haven’t fully exercised their right.
“While the constitution and laws grant citizens the status of primary information holders for all public bodies, actual access to diverse information is not fully established. Public bodies must be more accountable in implementing laws,” he asserted.
The PM highlighted that the right to information isn’t solely for those with access to public entities; it’s for all citizens, including marginalized groups, neglected by the state for years.
Nepal’s RTI Act ranks among the world’s best, and PM Dahal emphasized that its effective implementation will enhance government transparency and accountability, aligning with democratic norms and responsible governance.
“Enhancing mass access and involvement in state information is inherent to a democratic system,” reiterated PM Dahal, who stressed the importance of digital governance aligned with the rapid development of information and communication technology (ICT).
The Prime Minister pledged full government support to the National Information Commission in bolstering its RTI implementation capabilities.
