Government and civil society stakeholders have called for the prosecution of officials who fail to share information as required by law, emphasizing the need for transparency and public accountability.
The commitment was made during the commemoration of the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) in Kampala on October 7, 2025.
"We are going to hold public institutions accountable through litigation for not complying with the laws," said Sendugwa.
"So those entities that are not responding to requests, or those who don’t respond in time, we put you on notice."
Joshua Akandwanaho, senior information technology official at the National Information Technology Authority (NITA), supported Sendugwa’s call, urging citizens to report noncompliant government agencies.
"We are trying to find solutions for MDAs that are adamant about not responding to public requests. Kindly engage NITA so we can take these cases to court and ensure officials are responsive," he said.
Marie Nanyanzi, programs associate at Twaweza, stressed the importance of investing in rural infrastructure to expand access to information.
"We need to expand access to electricity in rural areas so people can power devices like mobile phones, which are crucial for accessing information," she said.
Dr Gerald Walulya, a lecturer in the Department of Journalism and Communication at Makerere University, recommended reviewing the Access to Information Act to ensure it remains relevant and effective.
"The current law is running out of date. Encouraging citizens to exercise this right is essential for holding officers accountable," he said.
The call for accountability comes amid a global push for transparency, as governments seek to balance public access to information with national security concerns.
In some countries, officials who fail to comply with information requests may face personal liability, including fines or imprisonment.
Access to Information in Uganda is a cornerstone of transparency, accountability, and citizen empowerment, anchored in the country’s Access to Information Act.
It grants individuals the right to request and receive information from public bodies, promoting informed participation in governance and decision-making.
In the global context, Uganda’s Access to Information framework aligns with international standards advocating open government and the free flow of information, as recognized by initiatives such as the Open Government Partnership and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 16, which emphasizes accountable institutions and inclusive decision-making.
Despite progress, challenges such as delayed responses, limited public awareness, and infrastructural constraints continue to hinder full realization, reflecting a common struggle faced by many countries balancing transparency with operational and security concerns.
