Office of the Ombudsman
Summary
The Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta was established by the Ombudsman Act (Cap. 385) in 1995 and gained constitutional status through a 2007 amendment to the Constitution of Malta (Article 64A), which entrenched the office and required a two-thirds parliamentary majority to amend its provisions. The Ombudsman is appointed by the President of Malta acting in accordance with a resolution of the House of Representatives approved by at least two-thirds of all Members of the House, for a renewable five-year term. The office investigates written complaints from the public about maladministration by government and public sector entities, and may also initiate own-motion investigations on matters of public interest. Three Commissioners for Administrative Investigations, integrated within the Ombudsman's office, specialise in health, environmental and planning, and education matters. Annual reports are submitted to the House of Representatives.
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Supermajority legislative appointment |
|---|---|
| Term length | 5 years |
| Removal standard | For cause only |
| Budget independence | Legislative line item |
| Subpoena power | No |
| Compel testimony | No |
| Records access | Full access |
| Public reports required | Yes |
| Pre-publication review | None — reports published directly |
Statute
- Name
- Ombudsman Act (Cap. 385, Act XXI of 1995, as amended)
- Citation
- Cap. 385 (1995); Constitution of Malta art. 64A (2007)
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
Government of Malta and the entire public sector; investigates complaints of maladministration, injustice, and improper discrimination; three specialised Commissioners for Administrative Investigations cover health, environment/planning, and education