The Role of the Ombudsman in Promoting Good Governance in Malawi: A View from Public Accountability

Abstract

In Malawi, the Ombudsman is one of the governance institutions that provide oversight over other public agencies. A plethora of institutions addressing governmental accountability not only has direct implications on the separation of powers, but also raises important questions about their institutional authority, role and place in the governance mechanism. The present study endeavours to determine and contextualise the scope, role, functions and challenges of the Ombudsman institution in promoting good governance, specifically public accountability. The study adopted the mixed method of research. Using data from documents, 40 questionnaires and 6 interviews, the study finds that even though the institution faces challenges including poor funding, a lacking mandate and poor accessibility, it plays a huge role in promoting public accountability through its investigations and recommendations. The study recommends that the Ombudsman find ways to get stable funding, improve its visibility, remit, accessibility as well as relations with other oversight actors.