The Ombudsman Commission's opposition to the proposed changes to the Leadership Code could not be clearer, despite mischievous claims from some politician that the Commission supports the amendments.

In May 2009 the Ombudsman Commission submitted an 11 page brief to the National Executive Council (which can be downloaded below) setting out its concerns about so called "Maladina" amendments and making clear that it did not support the changes.

The Ombudsman Commission submission makes clear that the proposed changes:

  • reduce the powers of the Ombudsman to hold leaders to account
  • make leaders less accountable for their conduct than ordinary citizens
  • challenge the independence of the Commission

The submission also highlights the failure of Parliament to properly consult on the proposed changes which fundamentally weaken the Leadership Code.