The Ombudsman is not merely a moral symbol but an effective instrument of justice, Leader of the PN Alex Borg said.
In today's world, good governance cannot be reduced to a slogan but it must serve as the moral compass that guides us to make the right decisions every day, he added.
He was addressing the international conference organised by the Office of the Ombudsman on the occasion of its 30th anniversary, under the theme Upholding Good Governance in Challenging Times - The role of the Ombudsman.
At this conference, which brings together a number of Ombudsmen, academics, and representatives from European institutions, the Leader of the Opposition emphasised that the Ombudsman's role must continue to be strengthened so that it remains an independent and effective institution, not one of political convenience, but one that safeguards the democracy of our country.
Alex Borg stressed that the Ombudsman's moral authority is essential for the protection of good governance, but that it risks losing its effectiveness if the Government continues to ignore it. He insisted on the need for the Ombudsman's recommendations not only to be observed but also to be implemented through mechanisms established for that purpose within Parliament.
He recalled the proposal put forward in the recently published Ombudsplan 2026 for the establishment of a Parliamentary Select Committee on Public Administration to ensure that every Ombudsman report is discussed and systematically followed up. This, he said, is a principle which the Opposition has supported since 2022 and which should receive the full support of Parliament.
Alex Borg said that the PN strongly believes in the Ombudsman's role as guardian of good administration. While thanking the Ombudsman Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon for his work and contribution towards strengthening Malta's institutions, the PN leader called for a change in political culture - "one in which institutions are protected not according to political convenience, but in line with their original purpose: to serve the people."
The PN Leader concluded by saying that good governance is not merely a matter of law, but also requires courage and ethics. The Ombudsman must remain a bridge of trust between the citizen and the State - a mirror reflecting the conscience of the nation, he said.
Alex Borg affirmed that the PN will continue to give its full support to strengthen this institution so that it truly serves as a guarantee of justice for all.
The conference Upholding Good Governance in Challenging Times - The role of the Ombudsman is being held under the patronage of President of Malta Myriam Spiteri Debono and brings together delegates from more than 20 countries. The conference is discussing themes such as trust in governance, the protection of the vulnerable, ethics in public administration, and the role of technology and artificial intelligence in strengthening democratic institutions.