Transparency Solomon Islands Commend Appointment of New Ombudsman

Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) would like to congratulate the Office of the Ombudsman on the appointment of a new Ombudsman, Mr Joe Poraiwai.

The position of Ombudsman has been vacant since the 1st of September 2006, whilst the Government has challenged in both the High Court and the Court of Appeal the appointment of the candidate recommended by the committee responsible for making such a decision under the Solomon Islands Constitution.

TSI has, in the past, expressed its concern regarding the lengthy delay in the appointment of the Ombudsman. While this office has been empty, the Solomon Islands public have been deprived of their right to have complaints regarding maladministration within the state or agents of the state heard with and dealt with appropriately.

With the appointment of the Ombudsman, TSI looks forward to the Office of the Ombudsman again undertaking its role as watch-dog as well as to review and seek to improve public sector decision making processes and practices to ensure accountability and transparency throughout the Solomon Islands public sector.

TSI congratulates the Ombudsman on his appointment and wishes Mr Poraiwai all the best in this very important role.

For any press enquiries please contact

Mr Bob Pollard, Chairman, Transparency Solomon Islands
T: +667-20453
E: [email protected]