Freedom of Information promised for Kenya

Freedom of Information promised for Kenya

Kenya's president Kibaki, speaking during the opening session of the International Press Institute World Congress and 54th General Assembly, has promised to implement freedom of information legislation in Kenya.

This is seen by some as a move to counter criticism that the secrecy in which the Government operates breeds official corruption while stifling scrutiny of the conduct of public affairs.

Commenting on the rebuilding Rwanda after the 1994 genocide, Kibaki said: Africa is undergoing many positive changes and has many success stories to tell … It is encouraging to note that 42 African countries have held multiparty presidential and or parliamentary elections in the past 10 years. Last year, 18 African countries had economic growth rates of over five per cent."

Freedom of information law to be enacted (Sunday Standard, Kenya, 23 May 2005)