The Architects Registration Council (ARC), an agency under the Ministry of Works and Housing has been handed a fine of GH¢50,000 for its refusal to adhere to the directives of the Right to Information (RTI) Commission.

The Commission had requested that the Architects Registration Council grant access to requested information, specifically concerning alleged extension of the mandate of the Governing Council by the sector minister, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah.

The Registrar of the Council, Dr. Emmauel Eyiah-Botwe did not provide the needed information to the RTI when requested.

In a response to the RTI, the Registrar indicated that he had travelled out of town and was unable to provide such information.

The Commission noted with regret that the same letter communicating this was signed by the same Registrar.

Citing the ARC's non-compliance with Act 989, the RTI Commission said such conduct undermines the right of access to information enshrined in Article 21(1) (f) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.

The Commission denounced this behaviour and imposed an administrative penalty of GH¢50,000. 

The penalty attracts an additional default penalty at a rate of 10% on the principal penalty of GHS50,000.00 in the event of default for any additional 7 days after.

The ARC were further instructed to provide the said information within 7 days.

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