Transparency is paramount

Journalists are often criticised for simply doing their work, especially when playing the watchdog role in monitoring the conduct of government officials. Some leaders in government have serious misgivings about the media and are the first to question and vilify the work of journalists. Obviously, journalists are not perfect and also have their weaknesses, but the media performs a role that is vital in our democracy. As such, journalists will have to play a key role in promoting a democratic culture as well as enhancing the socio-economic development of our country. The media is also expected to shape public opinion on issues of the day. However, this can only be properly achieved if institutions, which are accountable to the public, promote a culture of honesty and openness. Accountability will be meaningless if ministries and parastatals do not place a huge premium on transparency. Public institutions are there to serve the people in the first place and information sharing is just as critical. Gaining access to information is necessary for ordinary citizens to make informed decisions about issues affecting them. How do we encourage active citizenship if the powers that be are reluctant to share information with the public and members of the media? The recent report compiled by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) concluded that 80% of public and private entities are found wanting when it comes to sharing information, especially when requested by civil society and the media. In reality, very few leaders practice true transparency within their organisations in this country. This is despite calls to ensure greater openness and transparency within the public and private sectors. The selective dissemination of information discourages public participation in policymaking and this does not augur well for a democracy like Namibia where a strong emphasis should be placed on greater accountability and transparency. We must see freedom of expression and the right to information as basic human rights. It is critical that everyone should rally and unite behind the media and civil society organisations in their call for access to information.