MAURITIUS | Launching of Ombudsman's Annual report 2024

Following submission of his 51st Annual Report 2024 to His Excellency, the President of the Republic Mauritius, Mr Harry Ganoo, G.O.S.K, Ombudsman launched his report, covering the period of 1 January to 31 December 2024 on 10th July 2025 to the Press during an event held at the Conference Room of the Ombudsman’s Office in the presence of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs responsible for Human Rights.

This year’s report reflects the Office’s sustained commitment to upholding the principles of accountability, fairness, transparency, and good governance in the public sector. It captures the main trends in public complaints, highlights significant investigations undertaken, and provides valuable recommendations made to Government departments, statutory bodies, and other public authorities, namely, Local Authorities and Rodrigues Regional Assembly.

Among the key highlights of the 2024 report:

• An increase in public awareness and trust in the Ombudsman institution, evidenced by a rise in the number of complaints lodged and inquiries conducted;
• Notable systemic investigations resulting in impactful recommendations aimed at improving administrative efficiency and equity;
• Strategic collaborations with regional and international Ombudsman networks, including active participation in AOMA, IOI and AOMF forums and committees;
• Engagement with vulnerable communities to promote inclusive access to administrative justice.

In his address, the Ombudsman reiterated the constitutional mandate of his Office to act as an independent watchdog against maladministration in the public service. He emphasized the importance of strengthening institutional cooperation to ensure the effective implementation of recommendations and uphold the rule of law.

Significance and Next Steps

• The report calls for legislative and institutional reforms to enhance accountability and administrative justice.
• It proposes targeted procedural improvements to ensure fairness, reduce inefficiencies, and curb misuse of detention practices.
• The Office of the Ombudsman maintains its pivotal role as an independent constitutional watchdog, promoting transparency and public confidence.

The Office of the Ombudsman of Mauritius remains a proud and long-standing member of the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI) and continues to value the collaborative opportunities provided through its global membership.

A digital copy of the 2024 Annual Report is available on the official website of the Ombudsman and can be accessed through the download section below.

Source: The Office of the Ombudsman of the Republic of Mauritius