Information and Communication Technology Minister Tjekero Tweya will table the Access to Information Bill in the National Assembly this year. The announcement follows consultations among various stakeholders in the media sector, Government officials and civil society to seek input before the drafting and implementation of the bill. Once enacted, it will give every individual the right to seek, access and receive information from public or private bodies that perform public functions. There is currently no law that guarantees free access to information on issues of significant public interest in Namibia. Tweya told Nampa that the proposed legislation must be at the top of the agenda of every media house. He said easier access to information would contribute to a well-informed, knowledgeable and relevant society. The minister urged media institutions to report extensively on the need for the bill, to sensitise lawmakers on its importance and enhance implementation. Meanwhile, the Government is looking at the possible introduction of a statutory regulatory body to attend to issues of misconduct on the part of media practitioners and institutions. Tweya said it would not work at the whim of politicians and the Government wants an independent and professional body to regulate it. The ministry will host an Information and Communication Technology Summit from the 10th to the 12th of October to address existing concerns.