Surely the Ombudsman is aware of the hot debate that is taking place in our local media regarding suspicions alleging 27 local councils on corrupt practices, tampering with tenders and abusing the financial regulations.
The incessant demands for these allegations to be published have not ceased and rightly so, for millions of euros in public funds are at stake. One cannot turn a blind eye and expect residents to cast their vote in the coming June council elections regardless of the pending accusations, some very serious. On the other hand, the authorities and political parties are keeping mum on this, so called national, scandal.
Asking the Ombudsman to involve his office in this debate is very appropriate. His recommendations could help persuade the authorities concerned, to publish without further ado the outcome of these inquiries. The Ombudsman has all the faculties and the right by law to investigate issues of national interest. Unfortunately the repeated warnings by the Auditor General have always fallen on deaf ears.
To restore faith in the local councils the authorities have to be more transparent and enforce strict actions against those who have abused. Although the Ombudsman can only limit to giving advice, his say is very significant.
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