Commonwealth Ombudsman annual report 2008–2009

tonga

The Commissioner for Public Relations performs Ombudsman functions in the Kingdom of Tonga. The office commenced operation in 2001. The position of Commissioner has been vacant since 2006, and the office is presently managed by Senior Investigator Mr Pilimisolo L Tamo'ua.

A review has been conducted on the legislation establishing the office of Commissioner, and legislation may be introduced into the Tongan Parliament later in 2009. It is possible that the office will be re–named the Ombudsman of Tonga. Other changes would improve the capacity of the office to discharge Ombudsman functions, including publishing reports.

As part of a Pacific Ombudsman Alliance activity in March 2009, one of our officers, John Cziesla, spent a week working in Tonga with the Commissioner for Public Relations to help in developing the legislative changes. John and Senior Investigator Tamo'ua held meetings and established linkages with the Solicitor–General's Office. They assured the Solicitor–General of further legislative drafting support, and ensured that there was adequate support to establish a timeframe for passage of the legislative amendments.

John also provided assistance to establish a memorandum of understanding between the Commissioner and the Tongan Police Force, which will help to refine the role of the Commissioner in handling complaints about police conduct.