Abstract:
Right to Information is an essential requirement of good
governance in a country. Since Sri Lanka is in a post war context, it is
claimed that government decisions should focus on capacity development in
the country. Sri Lanka faces enormous challenges in the areas of good
governance, transparency, abuse of discretion and corruption. It is argued
that it has become a necessity to enact a piece of legislation which is
transparent oriented and further which enable people to be informed. In this
context Sri Lanka should enact and implement a legislation to give effect to
people’s Right to Information. This type of enactment will promote
openness, transparency and accountability and shall act as a watch dog
against abuse of power, corruption, and bureaucratic apathy. Further it will
enhance the participatory democracy by enabling people to make an
informed choice. Furthermore, sustainable development requires the sound
decisions which have taken in the light of good governance. To serve this
purpose transparency is the cardinal principle. Therefore ensuring that
transparency through enacting Right to Information Act is paramount.
