Prime Minister Gaston Browne has revealed that the government of Antigua and Barbuda is still in the process of identifying a suitable candidate for the crucial role of Ombudsman, a position that has remained vacant for an extended period. Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, Browne responded to inquiries from St. Mary’s South MP Kelvin Simon, who raised concerns about the prolonged vacancy and questioned the government’s timeline for filling the post. Browne emphasized that the administration has been diligently reviewing potential candidates but has yet to find an individual with the requisite qualifications, experience, and impartiality to effectively fulfill the role. ‘We have been looking for someone suitable for the role,’ Browne stated. ‘It’s a sensitive position that demands legal and administrative expertise, as well as a high degree of independence.’ The Prime Minister also disclosed that the government is now considering publicly advertising the position to attract a wider pool of qualified applicants. ‘We may have to go that route to ensure we find the right person,’ he added, reaffirming the government’s commitment to filling the post. The Office of the Ombudsman, established under the Constitution of Antigua and Barbuda, plays a pivotal role in investigating public complaints regarding maladministration or unfair treatment by government entities. Its prolonged vacancy has sparked concerns about the lack of an independent mechanism for addressing citizens’ grievances. MP Simon underscored the importance of restoring the office to full functionality, highlighting its role in holding public agencies accountable. Browne acknowledged the significance of the Ombudsman in promoting good governance and public trust but stressed the need for a careful and non-partisan appointment process. ‘It’s not a position we can fill hastily,’ he remarked. ‘We want to ensure the appointee possesses the competence and integrity to command public confidence.’