Ombudsman Office, INCHR Forge Partnership With UNDP

The Chairman of the Office of the Ombudsman, Counselor Findley Karngar, has stressed the need for institutional strengthening to enhance its efficiency and citizens’ engagement.

During a courtesy visit by UNDP’s Resident Representative, Aliou Dia, discussions centered around strategic support and future initiatives to boost the Office’s effectiveness was held.

Cllr. Karngar acknowledged the challenges the Office has faced since it was established in 2014, particularly in securing funding and building institutional capacity.

He said the office is keen on digital transformation, modernized complaint tracking and resolution systems, capacity building through targeted training and mentorship, Gender Integration in policies and programs, public accessibility and awareness, including simplifying the Code of Conduct for broader understanding.

“There’s a need for a robust digital platform and ongoing public education efforts to maximize the office’s impact and promote good governance,” Cllr. Kangar noted.

He expressed gratitude for UNDP’s ongoing contributions to the country’s governance framework, including support to the Independent National Human Rights Commission (INHRC) and past support to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).

Mr. Dia outlined key areas of potential support which include assisting in the development of a comprehensive strategic plan and conducting a capacity assessment to shape a three-year institutional strengthening roadmap.

Other areas included, facilitating technical assistance through UNDP’s global Ombudsman network and international partners, promoting civic engagement through digital innovation by young professionals, and supporting transparent complaint resolution and citizens’ feedback mechanisms.

“The Office of the Ombudsman is potentially one of Africa’s leading accountability institutions. UNDP is committed to helping build strong, transparent governance structures that foster public trust, advance governance reforms, and reinforce institutional integrity through strategic cooperation,” Dia said.

As next steps, both parties agreed to formalize collaboration following a submission of a detailed proposal from the Ombudsman’s Office, UNDP’s review of priorities to determine feasible support mechanisms, and a follow-up technical meeting to map out an actionable partnership plan.

INCHR chairman, Counselor Dempster Brown, called for accountability in cases of past atrocities, which he said, was vital to ensuring lasting peace in the country.

Brown also called for UNDP’s backing in setting up the necessary structures to advance justice for the victims.

In a meeting with Aliou Dia, focusing on strengthening ongoing collaboration to address the country’s most pressing human rights concerns, Cllr. Brown underscored the urgent need to address the backlog of cases involving approximately 1,600 detainees, some of whom have been in prisons for three to five years “without trial.”

He called for increased support from UNDP for transitional justice and legal system reforms, mobilizing resources to facilitate judicial processes to ensure justice for those unlawfully detained, strengthening protection for vulnerable women and girls, and War Crimes Court Advocacy.

“The War Crimes Court remains a critical priority for INCHR, while accountability for past atrocities is vital to ensuring lasting peace in the country,” Brown emphasized.

Mr. Dia meanwhile, commended INCHR for its unwavering dedication to promoting human rights, transitional justice, and legal reforms in the country.

He acknowledged the Commission’s efforts and expressed concern over detainees’ conditions, particularly after visiting detention centers in Voinjama and Gbarnga.

Dia said justice and reconciliation remain central to the country’s progress, stressing that accountability for war crimes is fundamental to achieving lasting peace.

He reiterated UNDP’s strong partnership with INCHR and assured continued support for legal reforms, social cohesion, and human rights advocacy in the country.

“UNDP remains committed to working alongside INCHR and other stakeholders to strengthen the country’s judicial system, promote gender equality, and advance transitional justice. Upholding human rights is essential to ensuring peace and stability in our nation,” said Mr. Dia.