Sierra Leone | Ombudsman of the Republic of Sierra Leone presents annual report

The Ombudsman of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Leon Jenkins-Johnston Esq.  presented the Ombudsman's Annual Report for 2018 and the first half of 2019 to His Excellency, Rtd. Brig. Julius Maada Bio at State House.

By Section 15 of the Ombudsman Act, the Ombudsman is required to prepare and submit to His Excellency the President, report on the activities of the office. His Excellency shall cause the report to be laid before Parliament. The report covers the period 1st January 2018 to 30th June, 2019.

Ombudsman Jenkins-Johnston revealed that from the 1st of January to 31st December 2018, 532 complaints were lodged with his office of which 330 were concluded. From the 1st of January to the 30th June 2019, 355 complaints were lodged with his office of which 142 have been concluded and the remainder is still under investigation.

He stated that most of the investigations relate to individual complaints against MDAs. Such complaints are often resolved by phone calls, visits to the MDAs and mediating between the parties. However, he noted that in some instances the complaints could not be resolved unless by formal investigations. In this case, report on the findings together with recommendations for remedial actions are served on the heads of institutions and ministers concerned.

Responding, His Excellency the President Brig. Rtd. Julius Maada Bio, thanked the Ombudsman for his selfless service to the People of Sierra Leone. President Bio said that as part of the government, the Ombudsman plays a vital role in ensuring that administrative Justice is applied fairly. He stated that the Country is going through tough times, but will ensure that the office gets what it deserves. President Bio thanked the Ombudsman and Staff and encouraged them to do more for the People of Sierra Leone.

Source: Office of the Ombudsman, Sierra Leone