By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
The Ombudsman of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Tejan Ahmed Israel Jah Esq, and his team has on Wednesday the 22th March 2025 paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Internal Affairs, AIG (Rtd) Morie Lengor Esq, along with a cross-section of his management team at his office on Gloucester Street in Freetown.
The visit, according to Ombudsman Tejan Jah Esq, was aimed at strengthening collaboration and seeking support in delivering the office’s mandate effectively. Acknowledging the strategic role of the Ministry of Internal Affairs in national development, he emphasized the importance of administrative justice in public institutions and the need for a more robust working relationship between his office and the Ministry.
During his remarks, Ombudsman Jah outlined the core mandates of his office, including intervening in administrative matters across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and investigating complaints from members of the public regarding maladministration and injustice. He noted that his office has handled several cases involving security institutions, particularly those under the Ministry’s supervision, and stressed the need for continued cooperation to ensure justice is served.
He concluded by appealing to Minister Lengor to provide the necessary support to enhance the Ombudsman’s work, particularly in addressing public complaints against security agencies.
In his response, Minister Lengor Esq reaffirmed the crucial role of the Ombudsman’s office in upholding justice within public institutions. He assured the visiting team of his commitment to fostering collaboration and enhancing mechanisms to resolve concerns within the Ministry and its affiliated agencies.
Minister Lengor further disclosed that his administration has implemented new and improved measures to address ongoing issues within the Ministry and its agencies. He pledged steadfast support for the Ombudsman’s work and assured them of future engagements to strengthen institutional cooperation.
The visit marked an important step towards reinforcing administrative justice and improving accountability in Sierra Leone’s public sector.