The torn veil : access to information as a tool for combating corruption with reference to Uganda

Abstract

"Although most African states seek to tackle the problem of corruption through institutoinal responses such as anti-corruption commissions, offices of ombudspersons and anti-corruption laws, it is important that citizens have a legally enforceable right of access to information (ATI) through ATI legislation. The constitutional guarantee of access to information in constitutions of African states cannot effectively be realized without ATI legislations. However, as the existence of these laws in itself will not bring about the desired changes, there is a need to agree and design minimum international standards and guiding principles that will influence the content and operations of the laws. ... The study is divided into five chapters. Chapter one is an introduction, which sets out the background of the study, the focus and objectives of the study, the significance of the study, especially to Uganda, the hypothesis, the methodology of the research and the literature review. Chapter two deals with the conceptualisation of ATI at the international, regional and national levels. It should be noted that this paper conceptualises ATI only in relation to corruption so as to limit the discussion to the subject matter of the research. It also examines the UN, AU, and Commonwealth responses to ATI as tool for openness in government, transparency and accountability and how ATI helps in developing a culture of anti-corruption. Chapter three examines the nature, causes and level of corruption in Uganda and the aspects of ATI that creates a culture of anti-corruption such as open government. Key concepts such as whistle blowing, open governance and the use of technology in information disclosure are discussed. Chapter four is an overview and an evaluation of the contents of [the] ATI Bill in Uganda and a critique of the Bill in relation to the basic principles developed under international law. Chapter five summarizes the study and makes some recommendations that may enhance the value of the proposed ATI in Uganda." -- Introduction.