Ombudsman's term extended

Joseph Sammut's term as Ombudsman has been extended to October 1 following the House of Representatives' failure to appoint a successor.

On July 21, Mr Sammut had informed President Eddie Fenech Adami that he would resign with effect from today. His term of office expires on Sunday.

The Department of Information said a meeting was held between the President and Mr Sammut yesterday during which Dr Fenech Adami expressed concern that the Ombudsman's Office would not be able to function if Mr Sammut resigns.

To avoid this situation, it was agreed that Mr Sammut's resignation would come into effect on October 1.

Mr Sammut informed the President that he would be away from the country until the end of September.

An acting Ombudsman will be appointed for the next two months. The department did not say who this would be.

Contacted yesterday, Mr Sammut said he had not made any suggestions as to who should replace him. The law specifies that the Ombudsman can only serve two terms.