Garowe, September 15, 2024: The Puntland Media Association (MAP), with generous support from the National Endowment for Democracy, has successfully concluded today a pivotal two-day multi-stakeholder consultative forum focused on the establishment of the Puntland Access to Information Act in Garowe.
The event drew a diverse group of participants, including Puntland’s Minister of Information, Mohamud Aydid Dirir, Director General Mohamed Isse Osman, MAP Chairman Mohamed Dahir Aynsane, PYAN Chairman Liban Mohamed Hussein, as well as heads of various media organizations, officials, and representatives from civil society organizations.
In a vibrant inaugural session, participants emphasized the critical importance of developing the Access to Information Act. Government officials and MAP leadership collectively recognized the necessity of including both state and non-state actors’ voices in this process, aligning the new legislation with the existing Puntland media law enacted in 2016.
Welcoming attendees with genuine enthusiasm, MAP Chairman Mohamed Dahir stated, “As the proud host of this vital consultative forum, it is my honor to welcome all participants. Over the next two days, we are embarking on a journey toward establishing the Access to Information Act—a vital step that will fundamentally enhance transparency and empower our citizens. This is not merely about legislation; it’s about igniting a movement toward accountability and informed citizenship. Let’s join forces to pave the way for a bold, transparent, and more engaged Puntland!”
Director General of Puntland’s Ministry of Information, Mohamed Isse, reinforced the fundamental nature of access to information, stating: “The right to access information is not just a privilege; it’s an essential need. We are on the cusp of implementing an Access to Information Act that will align with our media regulations. I am optimistic that the diverse perspectives gathered here will collaborate to finalize this important document.” He also pointed out recent legislative advancements regarding social media ethics and responsible advertising, highlighting the necessity of fostering a media environment that respects Puntland’s values while encouraging free expression,
Puntland’s Ministry of Information, Mohamud Aydid Dirir further underscored the importance of access to information as a cornerstone of the Puntland Constitution. He remarked, “Access to information is a fundamental pillar of the Puntland Constitution. To enhance transparency and accountability, we must establish clear legal frameworks that define this access in accordance with Puntland’s media laws. The upcoming Information Act will play a leading role in the soon to be unveiled Puntland communication strategy. I look forward to engaging in open discussions about its content and access procedures.” He expressed hope that the finalized document would soon be submitted to the Cabinet for approval, setting the stage for effective implementation.
Throughout the forum, participants engaged in robust discussions about the best practices for journalists to obtain information from public and private institutions, ensuring compliance with Puntland’s media laws. Presentations on the Puntland Constitution and media law were designed to stimulate dialogue on the Access to Information Act’s structure, while examples from other countries with established access to information laws provided valuable insights. Participants voiced the necessity for media outlets to send qualified reporters and outlined processes for data requests, reinforcing the idea that providing the public with a general right to access official information is a potent tool against corruption.
The National Endowment for Democracy deserves special recognition for its unwavering support of this crucial initiative. By fostering an environment that promotes transparency and accountability, this legislation will empower citizens of Puntland to access vital information, enhancing their ability to engage with governance and hold public officials accountable. This act is not just about access to information; it’s about cultivating a culture where citizens can participate meaningfully in their democracy, ensuring that government actions are transparent and decisions reflect the will of the people.
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