Strong Implementation of Transparency Laws Essential to Strengthen Public Access to Information in Balochistan: Askar Khan

Quetta (Qudrat Daily) — A one-day seminar was held in Quetta under the auspices of the Centre for Governance and Public Accountability in collaboration with the Balochistan Information Commission, focusing on the implementation status and challenges of the Right to Information (RTI) Act 2021 in the province.
The event brought together Director General Public Relations Balochistan Askar Khan, Commissioner of the Balochistan Information Commission Abdul Shakoor, CGPA Coordinator Ms. Rabab, public information officers from various government departments, civil society representatives, senior officials, and media personnel.
Participants discussed in detail the current implementation of the RTI Act 2021, institutional barriers, and strategies to ensure timely public access to information.
Speaking on the occasion, Askar Khan said that civil society has played a key role in the enforcement of the Right to Information law. He emphasized that constructive cooperation between the government and institutions, rather than criticism for its own sake, can make the law more effective.
He further stated that transparency and accountability are not the responsibility of a single institution but a collective national duty that requires joint efforts from all stakeholders.
Commissioner Abdul Shakoor highlighted the commission’s performance, progress, and future goals, stressing the need for improved coordination, institutional reforms, and modern systems.
Other speakers, including CGPA Coordinator Ms. Rabab and representatives from relevant organizations, noted that although implementation of the RTI law has begun, challenges such as limited institutional capacity, delays in information sharing, and lack of public awareness still persist.
They said these issues must be addressed to fully realize the benefits of the law.
At the conclusion of the seminar, participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening transparency, accountability, and public access to information in Balochistan through enhanced cooperation, capacity building, and effective policy measures.