MALAWI THE MOST OPEN PUBLIC INSTITUTION IN MALAWI Five out of the nine institutions assessed qualify as the most transparent in 2018; these include the BCC, MERA, the MEC, the MOAIWD and the MICT. All these institutions scored above 20, which is more than half of the overall score of 40 for both the website and the request for information categories. As noted earlier, this study shows a notable improvement in the way public bodies are managing and providing information to the public. Five out of nine institutions scoring above 20 is commendable and ought to be maintained. Out of the five institutions, two scored above 80%, notably the MEC at 36/40, representing 90% and the MICT at 33/40, representing 83%. These institutions proactively provide information to citizens, both in terms of availing general information on their online platforms and responding to requests for specific information. The MEC stands out as the most open and transparent institution in 2018. The body scored the highest aggregate score for both online presence and responsiveness to information requests with a total score of 36/40. The commission’s public relations officer responded to the request for information in less than 24 hours and provided all relevant information requested plus statements to support the commission’s position. Therefore, the Golden Key Award for the most open public institution in 2018 goes to the Malawi Electoral Commission. RECOMMENDATIONS This study shows that public bodies are making an effort to be more proactive in releasing information to the general public, both in terms of general information on their online platforms and responding to requests for specific information. The study has also shown that some institutions do not have up-to-date information on their online sites and need to improve. Therefore, there is a need to continue with such studies to ensure that public bodies embrace democratic principles of openness and transparency. While ATI laws and policies are crucial for encouraging governments and public bodies to be more transparent, MISA Malawi believes that transforming attitudes and behaviour is also critical. Studies on most open and secretive public bodies would make public officials and institutions more transparent, both in terms of proactive disclosure and responding to requests for specific information. 37