Office of the Ombudsman
Ombudsman
Summary
The Office of the Ombudsman of Trinidad and Tobago is constitutionally established under Sections 91-96 of the Constitution (1976, as amended) and governed by the Ombudsman Act Chap. 2:52. The Ombudsman is appointed by the President acting on the advice of the Prime Minister after consultation with the Leader of the Opposition (bipartisan), for a five-year term. The Office investigates complaints of maladministration, injustice, and improper acts by government ministries, departments, and statutory authorities, issuing non-binding recommendations. Annual reports are submitted to Parliament.
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Mixed (multi-branch) |
|---|---|
| Term length | 5 years |
| Removal standard | For cause only |
| Budget independence | Legislative line item |
| Subpoena power | No |
| Compel testimony | No |
| Records access | Case-by-case |
| Public reports required | Yes |
| Pre-publication review | None — reports published directly |
Statute
- Name
- Ombudsman Act Chap. 2:52; Constitution ss. 91-96
- Citation
- Ombudsman Act Chap. 2:52 (as amended); Const. ss. 91-96
- Full text
- Agency website →
Jurisdiction scope
All ministries, departments, and statutory authorities; investigates complaints of maladministration, injustice, and improper acts by government bodies; issues recommendations for redress.