20 Aug 2025

Accounting officers have been advised to practice fair administration by making correct decisions.

If administrative custodians made decisions according to the book, cases of maladministration would be significantly reduced.

It is against this backdrop that a legal investigator from office of the Ombudsman, Ms Thato Kebotse emphasised that decisions should be based on policy and merit.

Additionally, Ms Kebotse who was addressing district heads of departments in Letlhakeng on Monday, called on accounting officers to adhere to the Ombudsman’s recommendations.

She noted that compliance was expected because these recommendations were based on evidence gathered during investigations. 

She the Ombudsman would ‘name and shame’ those who disregarded the recommendations by writing a special report to Parliament.

Ms Kebotse explained that the Ombudsman acted as a mediator between government and complainants regarding alleged issues. The Ombudsman, she said was neither legal representative for complainants nor defender of the government.

Regarding human rights matters or violations, she stated that the Ombudsman had the authority to refer cases to court for enforcement.

Ms Kebotse also mentioned that the Ombudsman had the power to initiate investigations on its own accord.

Earlier, another legal investigator, Mr Moreri Katholo outlined the Ombudsman’s mandate, explaining that it investigated maladministration within government entities and human rights violations across all sectors

He clarified that their focus was on human rights enshrined in the constitution, specifically sections 3 - 15.

He added that the Ombudsman did not handle criminal cases, matters before the courts, corruption cases, or issues involving other countries.

Mr Katholo said the typical turnaround time for resolving a complaint was six months, but more complex cases may take longer.

The investigators also addressed a Kgotla meeting in Letlhakeng. BOPA