ESTABLISH YOURSELVES, OMBUDSMAN INSTITUTIONS URGED

Feb 22, 2015 Ivy Keziah National, News, Regional, World 0

Ombudsman institutions have been urged to establish themselves and take their rightful place in public administrations.

Speaking during the 2nd Colloquium of African Ombudsmen at Safari Park Hotel, Attorney General Githu Muigai said that the only way to secure the African Ombudsman in governance is through legal empowerment. A move that will not only benefit Ombudsman institutions but also other oversight institutions including; Anti-corruption agencies, auditor general offices, human rights agencies among others, adding that his office is currently spearheading a legal reform process aimed at strengthening through statutory empowerment oversight institutions such as the commission on administrative justice and the anti-corruption commission. Further noting that impunity in governance is on the rise and abuse of office and corruption are common elements.

Speaking on the same, the Chairman of the Commission on Administrative Justice, Office of the Ombudsman, Mr. Otiende Amollo said that the Ombudsman is a necessary tool of state to complement Government efforts towards good public administration as it has deepened governance by making it meaningful to the people thereby strengthening their confidence in the government.

According to Mr. Amollo the Colloquium has provided a platform for bench making on the operations of the Ombudsman in Africa and a ground where they share ideas and experiences. Noting that the second Colloquium seeks to discuss ways of strengthening the institution to respond to the unique needs and circumstances of Africa.

Mr. Amollo however noted that the colloquium seeks to answer the various questions we face in our daily work as well as draw from comparative experiences with an aim of providing a solid foundation for the Ombudsman to flourish in Africa.