Office of the Ombudsman About Us

MISSION STATEMENT

The office of the Ombudsman pledges to independently, impartially and thoroughly investigate all complaints of members of the public against any administrative action of officers of Government Departments, Public Authorities and Statutory Bodies and to make recommendations on ways of improving administrative practice and procedures and good governance, that will further the development of the democratic process in St. Christopher and Nevis.

What law Establishes the office 

The office of the Ombudsman is governed by the Ombudsman Act, No. 18 of 2006 which was passed by the National Assembly on the 8th September 2006.

What is the purpose of the office?   

The office of the Ombudsman is established for the purpose of protecting and enforcing the rights of citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis.  It is gives assistance to

persons who believe that they have suffered injustices by Public Officials as a result of maladministration.

What Authority apply?     

The Act applies to the following:

(a) Government Departments

(b) Public Authorities

(c) Government Boards and

(d) A Corporation or Body

(i) which is established by an Act of Parliament or in any manner by a Minister, or

(ii) whose revenues derive directly from money provided by Parliament or a fee or charge of any other description

authorized by Parliament

Who is the Ombudsman?

The Ombudsman is an independent official who investigates complaints from citizens about the administrative actions of Government Departments, Public

Authorities, Government Boards and Corporations or Bodies established of funded by Parliament.

Who appoints the Ombudsman? 

The Ombudsman is appointed by the Governor General after consultation with the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition.

What are the functions of the Ombudsman? 

(a) To investigate any administrative actions action of an authority for the purpose of deciding whether there is evidence of maladministration on the

part of the authority.

(b) To make recommendations pursuant to an investigation, to the authority concerning any administrative action that formed the subject of the

investigation and, generally  about ways of improving the administrative practices and procedures.

(c) Perform other such functions as may be conferred upon him under the  Act.