Somare says politicians must not undermine Ombudsman
13 December 2015
PNG TODAY
PAPUA New Guinea’s elder statesman, Sir Michael Somare, says the Ombudsman Commission must be adequately resourced with the right staff and finance to enable it to continue providing its mandated function without fear or favour.
The East Sepik Governor said this at the 40th anniversary celebrations of the Ombudsman Commission in Port Moresby on Friday.
Sir Michael said the Ombudsman Commission plays an important role in ensuring political leaders, do not abuse their position and power but perform for the greater good of the nation and people.
He said he is saddened to see the powers and functions of the Commission and other constitutional offices being undermined by various politicians for their own good.
Sir Michael appealed to his fellow parliamentarians not to use their mandated powers to water down institutional frameworks, saying this will lead to a breakdown in the rule of law, principles of democracy and the separation of powers.
He took time to acknowledge the contributions of pioneer Ombudsmen like the late Sir Ignatius Kilage, Sir Charles Maino, Ms Jean Kekedo and others who maintained the respect and integrity of this important institution.
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