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CHIEF Ombudsman Ila Geno and his delegation are now in the Autonomous
Bougainville region to negotiate and discuss the establishment of an
ombudsman office there.
Bougainville MP Fidelis Semoso had requested the commission to visit and
continue talks on setting an ombudsman office.
The delegation are led by Mr Geno, the commission’s director of
operations John Toguata and the New Guinea Islands Ombudsman manager.
The delegation will be holding meetings with the ABG vice-president John
Tabinaman, its ministers and senior public servants to find possible
means of setting up an office in Bougainville.
Mr Geno told a press conference the purpose of their visit was to
educate and remind the government and its public service of their
responsibilities and duties to effectively provide service to the
people.
“We are here to assist the Government leaders and its implementing body
to be efficient and honest in their delivery of services to the people,”
Mr Geno said.
He added that the Ombudsman and the people would like to see the
Government and its administration transparent, honest and committed in
serving its people.
Mr Geno said the ombudsman was prepared and willing to assist ABG in
setting up an office to be a watchdog over all corrupt practices within
its government and the public service.
Mr Semoso described the visit as very important to the infant political
future of Bougainville if it wanted to go the right direction.
He said having an Ombudsman office in the region would help guide
leaders and public employees to stand on their toes and avoid corrupt
malpractices.
He added that the Ombudsman must not be seen by leaders as a negative
body to the government and its operation but to see it as a guide tool
to empower good governance.
 
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