Former PSC chairman Lua is new chief ombudsman

 PRIME Minister Peter O’Neill yesterday announced the appointment of a new chief ombudsman.

He is Rigo Lua, a former Public Service Commission chairman and a well-respected public servant.

O’Neill said the ombudsman’s appointment committee comprising of himself, the chief justice and the chairman of the parliamentary appointments committee met yesterday and made the appointment.

He said Lua was chosen from 33 candidates, which was shortlisted to five, and then three.

“We felt that it was very important to have an experienced administrator so that we can manage some of the cases that come before the ombudsman commission and a meaningful and accountable manner,” O’Neill said.

“Rigo Lua came out as the most-experienced person.

“He is a man of great integrity and who has conducted himself as the chairman of Public Service Commission, without fear or favour.”