Social activist and blogger Vishal Persad is pushing for transparency in government communications, specifically focusing on WhatsApp messages exchanged between the Prime Minister, the National Security Minister, and commissioners of police regarding firearm user’s licenses from 2020 to 2024.
Attorney Keron Ramkhalwhan of JurisX Chambers, representing Persad, sent a letter to key officials on July 18, requesting access to these messages by August 19. This request stems from recent media reports revealing messages between former police commissioner Gary Griffith, the Prime Minister, and the National Security Minister discussing licenses for a Tobago quarry operator linked to the Prime Minister.
Persad argues that these WhatsApp communications, as shown in newspaper articles, should fall under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), emphasizing the importance of accountability in government affairs. Ramkhalwhan highlights that the use of digital communication platforms for official business raises transparency concerns and underscores the need for scrutiny over such exchanges.
Emphasizing the significance of transparency in governance, Ramkhalwhan warns against overlooking the applicability of FOIA to digital platforms like WhatsApp. He stresses that integrating modern communication methods into FOIA interpretation strengthens governmental transparency, promoting informed citizenship and upholding democratic norms in an increasingly digital society.
As Persad and Ramkhalwhan advocate for accountability and openness in government communications, their push for access to WhatsApp messages sheds light on the evolving landscape of transparency within public institutions.
