The Ombudsman has recommended the termination of Principal Electoral Officer, Mr Guilain Malesas, following findings that his appointment in 2023 was null and void.

The recommendation was made in a public report released by the Ombudsman’s Office in June this year.

The report found that the Public Service Commission breached relevant laws and procedures in its handling of the appointment of Mr Malesas as Principal Electoral Officer.

According to the Ombudsman’s findings, the PSC panel responsible for overseeing the appointment process breached Article 60 of the Constitution, as well as Sections 15, 18 and 23 of the Public Service Act.

The report also identified breaches of the Public Service Staff Manual and the Leadership Code.

As a result of the findings, the Ombudsman recommended the termination of Mr Malesas’ appointment.

VBTC News has followed up with the relevant authorities to find out whether the recommendations and findings contained in the Ombudsman’s report have been considered.

However, no comment has been received from the relevant authorities at the time of publication.