The Children’s Ombudsperson Act was unanimously approved last Thursday (41 votes in favor) in the National Assembly (DNA). The law provides for an independent complaints mechanism and grants the children’s ombudsperson the authority to monitor compliance with children’s rights.
Harriet Ramdien (VHP), chair of the Commission of Rapporteurs, stated after the adoption of the law that this demonstrates the National Assembly’s commitment to upholding children’s rights.
Minister Krishna Mathoera, government coordinator, emphasized that it is reassuring to see everyone’s concern for children and their collective fight for children’s rights. Acting Minister of Justice and Police, David Abiamofo, called the law a major step in further safeguarding children’s rights in Suriname. He especially congratulated the children, noting that their interests are now better protected by this legislation.
The minister stressed that officials guilty of criminal acts against children can be prosecuted under existing laws. Additionally, the act allows the children’s ombudsperson to investigate administrative actions that violate children’s rights. It was decided to reduce the appointment term of the children’s ombudsperson to four years, with the possibility of reappointment following an evaluation.
The ombudsperson must be a Surinamese national or have been a resident of Suriname for at least ten years. If the ombudsperson is found guilty of criminal offenses, they can be suspended by the President. Dismissal, however, can only occur after a final court ruling, in keeping with the principle of presumed innocence until proven guilty.
The law includes provisions for training employees of the institution to assist citizens in filing complaints, which can also be submitted by phone. For complex cases, the children’s ombudsperson may seek assistance from the Public Prosecutor’s Office.
To fund the institution’s operations, in addition to allocations from the national budget, contributions from NGOs will also be sought. The institution will be overseen by the President, and an annual report on its activities will be presented to both the President and the DNA on November 30.
Ramdien called the approval of the law a “long-cherished wish” and urged its implementation. She stressed the importance of oversight, especially in orphanages, where abuses are frequently reported.
Rabin Parmessar, leader of the NDP parliamentary faction, expressed the parliament’s high expectations of the children’s ombudsperson. “We look forward to seeing the budget and how resources will be allocated because we can pass laws, but without implementation, we achieve nothing.”
