We have been active, says ECJ on its role as Political Ombudsman
Published:Sunday | May 4, 2025 | 10:41 AM
The Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) says it has been actively discharging the functions of the Political Ombudsman.
The ECJ, in a statement on Saturday, stated that since assuming the role in February 2024, it has established a dedicated administrative unit within the Office of the Political Ombudsman and has commenced a review of the existing Political Code of Conduct.
Further, the commission said it has implemented mechanisms for accepting reports on breaches of the Political Code of Conduct.
This includes, according to the commission, an online portal to accept reports including photographs, audio, and video recording via the ECJ's website; and a dedicated e-mail address and telephone line, as well as the toll-free and WhatsApp number through the ECJ to get information.
The ECJ noted that it has received and addressed reports and complaints from the public, adding that it wrote to the general secretaries of political parties regarding the removal of flags and paraphernalia following the Local Government Elections.
Additionally, it said it has prepared for future implementation a public education programme on the role of the Political Ombudsman and the importance of citizen participation, and established a network of law enforcement officers across the island to assist in the execution of the law.
Regarding the functions of the Political Ombudsman, the ECJ said it has sought to streamline and improve the operations of the office, noting that the unit is tasked with responsibility for coordinating the activities of the office, including implementing mechanisms for accepting, processing, and responding to complaints from the public.
The unit is headed by the ECJ’s Registrar of Political Parties.
The name of the individual was not disclosed.
“That person will be the chief liaison between the public and the ECJ's members, who, together, constitute the Political Ombudsman.”
The ECJ stated that it has undertaken the functions of the Political Ombudsman using the resources allocated for the administration of its operations, noting that no additional funding has been provided for carrying out the activities related to the Political Ombudsman.
The ECJ said that since the commencement of the current electoral campaign period, two complaints have been received by the office so far: one in relation to the placement of signs in Montego Bay, St James and the other about the removal of paraphernalia in South Eastern St Elizabeth, which it said are being addressed by the Political Ombudsman.
“The ECJ recognises the critical import of the Political Ombudsman Act, as political conduct does impact the democratic process. It will carry out its tasks so long as the Parliament requires it so to do.”
How to submit a complaint to the Political Ombudsman:
Online: www.ecj.com.jm
Email: ecjombudsman@ecj.com.jm
Letter/ Visit: Office of the Political Ombudsman at 46 Duke Street, Kingston.
Call: 876-754-5845.
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