Times of Malta editorial underscores Ombudsman’s role in strengthening good governance

Times of Malta editorial underscores Ombudsman’s role in strengthening good governance

Published July 03, 2025

The Times of Malta today featured an editorial highlighting the constructive role played by the Office of the Ombudsman in supporting better governance and public administration. Referencing the Annual Report for 2024, the editorial described the Ombudsman’s observations as “wise advice” and emphasised the importance of collaboration between public service providers and independent institutions.

Quoting Parliamentary Ombudsman Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon, the editorial opened with a powerful reminder: “It is a stark reality that when complaints are ignored or treated with a low priority, confidence is undermined and people can become disillusioned with public services.” The piece urged public authorities to take these concerns seriously and underlined the need for empathy, responsiveness, and human dignity in the delivery of services.

The editorial also acknowledged the Ombudsman’s efforts to promote constructive scrutiny, noting that his office is increasingly being recognised by civil servants as a partner rather than a hindrance. In this context, it recalled the Ombudsman’s reflections on the Sofia inquiry, which he chaired, and the continued relevance of its unimplemented recommendations.

Ultimately, the editorial called for “a partnership for good governance,” where the Ombudsman and the civil service work hand in hand, guided by shared values of transparency, accountability, and service to the public.

You can read the full editorial here