Financial constraints hinder functioning of public administration – Ombudsman

Maputo, 29 Oct (AIM) – The office of Mozambique’s Ombudsman, Isaque Chande, points out to financial constraints, excessive bureaucracy, degradation of infrastructure, and a shortage of qualified human resources as factors that hinder the functioning of the public administration and the quality of services provided to citizens.

According to Chande, who was presenting his annual report to the country’s parliament, the Assembly of the Republic, on thursday, illegal charges and deficiencies in public services also jeopardize the country’s public administration.

“Corruption remains one of the primary obstacles to the consolidation of a democratic state governed by the rule of law and to the development of Mozambique. The economic crisis has exacerbated the difficulties faced by public institutions, driven by budget cuts, delays in the disbursement of funds, the accumulation of debt to suppliers, and the suspension of the supply of essential goods and services, including internet access, office supplies, and fuel”, he said.

The report presented by Chande also highlights operational challenges within public institutions at the district level, specifically within criminal investigation services, district public prosecutor’s offices, and certain police commands, stemming from a lack of human, financial, and material resources.

“We need to strengthen measures to prevent and suppress corruption, as well as holding state officials and agents accountable for involvement in illegal practices. Impunity must be combated at all levels to restore citizens’ trust in public institutions”, he said.

The Ombudsman also urges citizens to report illegal charges and poor service delivery within the public sector, arguing that “users should only pay legally established fees and should never be compelled to provide additional payments or favors to access services.”

However, he said, there is progress in the introduction of digital platforms and the expansion of electronic services, “including civil registration, criminal record checks, notary services, and passport issuance.”

Am/