BackFormer IOI president, New Zealand’s Sir Brian Elwood, presided over the IOI World Conference when it was held in Durban in 2000. On behalf of the IOI he has provided a reflection on what was a very moving occasion and one which underlined the direction Nelson Mandela had taken in the pursuit of access to justice and upholding human rights for all the citizens of his country.
“Nelson Mandela, seemingly somewhat frail but upright and proud, was the featured guest at the year 2000 IOI Conference in Durban, South Africa. The Conference presence in South Africa was to honour the achievements of Mr Mandela, the country and the institution of Public Protector ably represented by Selby Baqua, then Vice President of the IOI. That tripartite aim of the Conference although effectively achieved, in large measure was focused upon the personality and approach of one individual.
What he represented and had achieved seemed to capture for Conference delegates the essence and purpose of Ombudsmanship – ensuring that fairness was the hallmark of the relationship between the governor and the governed. Ever modest he gave unqualified credit to the Ombudsman concept and the way it had been adapted to suit the circumstances of his country suggesting it would continue to be of relevance well into the future especially in a fight to root out corruption in all aspects of public endeavour.
Interestingly whilst waiting to go on stage for his presentation he and I had nearly 30 minutes together alone. We covered many topics in a frank and friendly manner punctuated by his ever present smile and humour, but when I told him that the IOI was concerned about the apparent emerging level of corruption in high places he became serious and indicated his own increasing concerns. He said in the time he had left he aimed to talk bluntly with his former Presidential colleagues about what was being uncovered and tell them that change should be led by example from the top. I thanked him and wished him well with this important endeavour.
At the conclusion of his address the Conference gave him a prolonged standing ovation and he featured as the centrepiece of the official Conference photograph. His presence ensured that all delegates knew they had participated in an historic and memorable conference.”
The IOI joins in the worldwide celebration of the life of this great man and pays tribute to his enduring legacy of hope.
