QUETTA: A major training session was held in Quetta to equip government officials with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively implement the Balochistan Right to Information (RTI) Act 2021. The workshop, organized by Transparency International Pakistan (TIP) in collaboration with the Balochistan Information Commission, brought together Public Information Officers (PIOs) from various provincial departments.
The event highlighted the critical role of transparency in fostering accountable governance. Prof. Dr. Nousheen Wasi, a member of TIP’s Board of Trustees, emphasized that transparency is a fundamental pillar for good governance. Abdul Shakoor Khan, the Information Commissioner, provided a detailed overview of the Act, outlining the legal responsibilities of public institutions. While acknowledging that the response rate to RTI applications in the province remains low, he expressed the commission’s determination to overcome initial challenges.
Kashif Ali, Executive Director of TIP, detailed the requirements for proactive disclosure of information under Section 5 of the law, stating that access to information is a key tool for eradic corruption and rebuilding public trust. Veteran journalist Saleem Shahid highlighted the Act’s importance for strengthening democracy in Balochistan.
The session included an interactive segment where participants discussed practical challenges in implementing the law. Officials and organizers agreed that such initiatives are crucial for raising awareness and ensuring the effective application of the RTI Act, marking a significant step toward greater governmental transparency in the province.
Meanwhile the CM Balochistan Mir Sarfaraz Bugti has said that the corruption is the biggest challenge and the root-cause for Balochistan.
He was talking to the members of the National Youth Council in the CM House in Quetta.
The CM Balochistan said that it is not the violence or the provocation but corruption that remains as the biggest challenge in Balochistan.
He further said that the dream of the development and progression can come true by rooting out the corruption from Balochistan.
The Chairman of Prime Minister Youth Program , Rana Mashhood Khan, the youth delegates and the officials of the Youth Department were also present in the meeting.
CM Bugti said that the government is taking necessary measures for the promotion of the meritocracy.
Every youth is a precious asset for the state. He urged the youth delegate to promote the general narrative of the state and the positive thought.
