RAIC LEGAL STATUS
The RAIC draws its legal mandate from the Act enacted by the Sierra Leone Parliament on 29th October, 2013.
- In the performance of its functions under the RAI Act, the Commission has the powers of the High Court to:
- Administer oaths
- Undertake investigations of appropriate matters
- Enter any premises in the conduct of investigations
- Order the release of information
- Impose fines, imprisonment or both
- The Commission and its authorized Agents, shall be in the performance of its functions under this Act, be Independent and not subject to the directions or control of any person or authority.
Mandate
- The RAIC has the statutory mandate to promote access to information held by, or under the control of Public Authorities (defined in the Act as any individuals or organizations which receive monies on behalf of the people of Sierra Leone)
- The Private Sector also has the mandatory obligation in the RAI Act to disclose information to the general public, if that information is required for the protection or enforcement of any right.
Objective
The overall objective of the RAI Commission is to promote the demand and supply of information among the General Public, Public Authorities and the Private Sector, in accordance with the Act enacted by the Sierra Leone Parliament on 29th October 2013.
Values
- Request ( to all, irrespective of class)
- Openness (accessible)
- Fairness (Justice)
- Swiftness (Quick response)
- Transparency (clearness)
- Accountability (Answerable to the people)
- Integrity (honest and reliable)
Vision
To make Sierra Leone a place where information access is relatively smooth, so as to enhance sustained Socio-Economic Development.
POWERS OF THE COMMISSION IN THE RAIC ACT INCLUDE:
- Monitor and report on the compliance by authorities with their obligations under the RAI Act.
- Make recommendations for reform, both of a general and specific nature to public authorities.
- Cooperate with or undertake training activities for Public Authorities on the Right to Access Information Act, 2013 and enhance its effective implementation.
- Refer to the appropriate Public Authority, cases which reasonably disclose evidence of criminal offences under this Act.
- Publicize the requirements of the RAI Act 2013 and the rights of individuals under it.
