MALAWI 6. Did the institution provide written reasons for the refusal of information? (If information was not refused, please contact the institution to find out what the policy is in this regard –if the institution supplies written reasons for refusal mark ‘Yes’) • 7. Did the institution disclose information about its operations, budgets, structure etc. • 8. Did the authority provide information without questioning the aims and motivations of the applicant? • 9. Did the institution acknowledge your request for information within 7 days? The PRO requested MISA-Malawi to put in writing justifying the reasons for requesting information stating the aim and how MISA intends to use the information. They did not respond to the written requests for information, though the PRO acknowledged receipt of the written request for information. • • 10. Was the information received clear and understandable? Total Score: 4/20 Part 2: Oral request for information n = 20 1. Is there an official designated to take and respond to information requests? (Please state title of officials in ‘Additional Information’) No Additional Information • The person is known as the Public Relations Officer (PRO) 2. Did the institution reply within 21 days? (If less than 7 please state in ‘Additional Information’) • 3. Did the institution respond to your oral request for information? • 4. Did the person dealing with your request have a friendly and helpful attitude? • 5. Did officials provide reasonable advice and assistance when seeking information • • 7. Did the institution provide written reasons for the refusal of information? (If information was not refused, please contact the institution to find out what the policy is in this regard –if the institution supplies written reasons for refusal mark ‘Yes’) • 8. Did the institution disclose information about its operations, budgets, structure etc? • 10. Was the information received clear and understandable? Total Score: 6/20 The PRO was so defensive because NAO was reported to have misappropriated funds from DFID and Norway. The PRO therefore, took this regard and responded with a negative attitude in an attempt to defend NAO’s position. We were referred from one person to the other and at the end of the research we did not get the response. They wanted a letter explaining the reasons MISA is seeking the information. 6. Did the institution provide all of the information requested? (If partially please mark ‘No’ and indicate in ‘Additional Information’ how much of the information requested was supplied) 9. Did the institution acknowledge your request for information within 7 days? 30 Yes • •