The government has reconstituted a five-member selection committee to recommend the names of one Chief Information Commissioner and two Information Commissioners in accordance with Section 14(1) of the Right to Information Act, 2009. The committee is headed by Appellate Division Justice Farah Mahbub. Its other members are Cabinet Secretary, Bhola-1 lawmaker Andaleeve Rahman, Pirojpur-1 lawmaker Masud Sayeedi, and National Press Club President Hasan Hafiz.
Committee's Role and Function
The primary role of this committee is to recommend suitable candidates for the vacant positions of Chief Information Commissioner and Information Commissioners. The committee will submit the names of two candidates for each position to the President, based on the majority decision of the members present at its meeting.
Significance of the Reconstituted Committee
The reconstitution of this committee is a crucial step in ensuring the proper functioning of the Information Commission, which plays a vital role in upholding the Right to Information Act. The Information Commission is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Act and ensuring transparency and accountability in government operations.
Background of the Right to Information Act
The Right to Information Act, 2009, was enacted to empower citizens by providing them with the right to access information held by public authorities. This Act aims to promote transparency and accountability in the functioning of government and to contain corruption and delay.
Next Steps
Following the reconstitution of the selection committee, the next steps will involve the committee convening to discuss and evaluate potential candidates for the Chief Information Commissioner and Information Commissioner positions. Once the recommendations are made, the President will make the final appointments.
