Posted by Chester Morton / Wednesday 12 October 2016 / No comments
The functions of the Ombudsman
The
Ombudsman is an official empowered to inquire into complaints of citizens who
feel they have been improperly or unfairly treated by a government official or
department. If the findings of the Ombudsman prove that the complaint was true,
he/she seeks a remedy.
FUNCTIONS OF THE OMBUDSMAN
Protection of
individual liberties
It is recognized that, in the course of the
performance of their duties, government officials over step their
constitutional bounds. When this happened, the office of the Ombudsman helps to
redress any rights of the individual that has been violated.
Investigates matters
Another function of the Ombudsman is to investigate
matters brought before his/her attention. In other words, he/she looks into
complaints before it. Apart from that, he/she could also institute an investigation
into a matter even if it is not brought before it.
Checks administrative abuses
After an investigation, when the Ombudsman detects
any anomaly in the carrying out of an official duty for example, he/she
initiates processes to redress the anomaly and possibly recommends compensation
for the aggrieved party.
Exposes wrong doings
In the course of their duties, the ombudsman uncovers
rot in the day to day administration of the by government departments and agencies.
These exposures are brought to the attention of the public and the world by
newspaper house thereby exposing them. Apart from that in an annual report to
Parliament, which he/she is mandated to submit, the activities of unscrupulous administrators
are exposed.
Ensures that public officials are not
falsely accused
When the Ombudsman, in the course of his/her
investigation finds out that an officer has been falsely accused of wrong
doing, he/she takes steps to remedy the situation. Sometimes, it is just a disgruntled
junior officer who has been corrected or punished for wrong doing trying to tarnish
the image of his/her superior.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS
1.
a. What is an Ombudsman?
b.
Highlight five functions performed by the Ombudsman.
3. a. Highlight three
features of the office of the Ombudsman.
b. What
three functions does the Ombudsman perform?
