On 20 February 2025, the Chief Ombudsman, Mr. Richard Pagen, met with provincial leaders of the Milne Bay Province to present the Ombudsman Commission’s report on the findings of a facility inspection conducted at the Giligili Correctional Service Institute.
The inspection conducted on 24 November 2023 indicated findings that highlighted critical issues of overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure at the facility.
As part of the Commission’s mandate under Section 219(1) (c) of the Constitution and Section 13 of the Organic Law of the Ombudsman Commission, the Commission is required to investigate discriminatory practices, address matters of public concern, and ensure accountability and transparency in government operations.
During the presentation, the Chief Ombudsman emphasized the urgent need for immediate action to be taken by provincial leaders to address the challenges identified at the Giligili Correctional Service Institute. The Chief Ombudsman also stressed the importance of safeguarding the safety and well-being of both the inmates and the staff. The Chief Ombudsman has called on the provincial leaders in Milne Bay Province to work collaboratively to resolve these issues.
In response to the report, the Milne Bay Provincial Government pledged significant financial support to renovate and construct new cell dormitories at the Giligili Correctional Service Institute. The key contributions made included:-
A commitment made of K250,000.00 by the Hon. Douglas Tomuriesa, Leader of the Opposition and Member for Kiriwina Goodenough Electorate;
Pledge of K300,000, including a new 74-kilowatt generator and solar street lights by the Hon. Isi Henry Leonard, Member for Samarai Murua Open Electorate; and
Hon. Ricky Morris, Member of the Alotau Open Electorate, committed K100,000.00 through his CEO, Mr. Wilson Hillary.
A total of K650 000.00 was committed to address the overcrowding and improve the facilities at the Giligili Correctional Service Institute. The Chief Ombudsman highly commended the provincial leaders for their financial commitments and urged them to continue collaborating to ensure the safety and rehabilitation of inmates.
Mr. Timbi Kaugla, the Assistant Commissioner of the Southern Region Correctional Service Institute also expressed gratitude to the Commission and the Milne Bay provincial leaders fore of these efforts in improving conditions at the Giligili Correctional Service Institute.
