ECJ makes Political Ombudsman appointment
Published:Wednesday | April 30, 2025 | 4:33 PM
Justice Minister Delroy Chuck wants the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) to provide details surrounding the terms and engagement of an individual now functioning in the role of the Political Ombudsman.
The name of the individual was not stated.
The Office of the Political Ombudsman was subsumed into the ECJ in February 2024.
Under this regime, the ECJ has a responsibility to monitor and take action against those who breach the political code of conduct.
Critics argue that the consolidation has weakened oversight and accountability mechanisms of political activities.
In recent times, there have been complaints that the commission has been silent amid heightened political activities for the general election, which is due in September.
In a statement Wednesday, Chuck disclosed that he has been advised that an individual has been appointed to carry out the field functions previously conducted by the then stand-alone Political Ombudsman.
“I understand that the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) has also been undertaking the work of the Political Ombudsman, to include receiving complaints and related matters concerning the previously held local government elections.”
According to him, the $60 million provided for in the National Budget for the 2024-2025 financial year for matters related to the role and functions of that office was not used by the ECJ.
It appears that expenses in relation to the role and function of the Political Ombudsman are funded from the ECJ’s budget, Chuck noted.
“With this new development, I am now urging the ECJ to provide details surrounding the terms and engagement of the individual now functioning in the role of the previous office of the Political Ombudsman, as well as how members of the public can contact that office with election-related matters.”
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