RTI Commission slaps SSNIT with GH¢200,000 fine for non-compliance

The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has been fined GH¢200,000. This penalty comes from the Right to Information Commission. It is a response to mismanagement by former Director-General Kofi Bosompem Osafo-Marfo. His actions have harmed SSNIT's reputation and jeopardized workers' contributions.

The issue began on November 14, 2024. Investigative journalist Innocent Samuel Appiah filed a petition with the RTI Commission. He sought information that SSNIT had repeatedly denied him access to since August 2024. His requests included details about an alleged unlawful staff member and compensation packages for previous leaders.

Despite multiple attempts, SSNIT did not respond to Appiah’s requests or his internal review application on October 25, 2024. The RTI Commission then intervened, asking SSNIT for an explanation on November 2, 2024. However, they received no response.

In its ruling, the Commission reviewed Appiah's requests thoroughly. They found that most of the information requested was not exempt under Act 989. While some travel details could be exempt due to safety concerns, most requests were valid.

The Commission condemned SSNIT's lack of compliance with the law. They criticized Osafo-Marfo’s leadership for ignoring transparency principles outlined in Act 989. Public institutions must respond to information requests within 14 days; SSNIT failed this obligation.

This failure resulted in a significant financial penalty that could have been avoided with proper governance practices. The GH¢200,000 fine will come from funds meant for SSNIT members’ benefits.

If SSNIT does not pay within 14 days, they will incur an additional penalty of 10 percent every two weeks until paid. This emphasizes the seriousness of their non-compliance.

The ruling raises broader concerns about governance in public institutions like SSNIT. Civil society groups are calling for reforms and better oversight mechanisms to prevent future mismanagement.

Professor Kwame Agyeman stated that Osafo-Marfo’s actions betrayed public trust in SSNIT. He emphasized that public institutions must protect workers' contributions responsibly.

As new leadership takes over at SSNIT, it is crucial to prioritize transparency and accountability moving forward. Upholding high governance standards is essential for restoring public confidence in the institution.