The Right to Information Act: how to request information from public bodies
Anyone can ask a public institution for information under Act 989. How to apply, the time limits, and what to do if refused.
· 1 min read
The Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989) gives every person the right to access information held by public institutions, subject to exemptions.
Making a request
Apply in writing (or orally, which the officer records) to the institution's information officer, describing the information as clearly as possible. You do not have to give a reason.
Time limits
The institution must decide within 14 days, which may be extended in limited cases.
Exemptions
Some information is exempt, such as material that would harm national security, cabinet deliberations, or personal information about others.
If you are refused
You can ask the head of the institution to review the decision, then apply to the Right to Information Commission, and finally go to court.
Sources
- Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989)
- Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, 1992, article 21(1)(f)
- GhaLII, Ghana Legal Information Institute (texts of Ghanaian statutes and judgments)
This article is general information about Ghanaian law, not legal advice. Speak to a lawyer about your own situation.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Please contact us about your own situation.
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