OPINION: Knocking at the door of  a dying institution

One by one they appeared before the Government  Committee of the National Assembly, almost all the aspirants to become defender of the People [ombudsman]to complete the term vacated by Alfredo Castillero.

 Some of the applicants looked like participants in a ritual, in which each time the position has been available, they presented their documents. Other applicants were surprised by their ignorance of the concept of human rights and the legislation that governs the Ombudsman.

 Many spoke eloquently of everything that the institution could become, say and do, however, they did not show understanding of the crisis in the institution. While the commissioned deputies asked their questions, it was clear that they also did not understand the role they have played in the collapse of the Defensoría. No deputy offered to refrain from requesting appointments or committed to defend the independence of the Ombudsman. Now, applicants have until January to get their votes or wait for an upcoming call to resubmit their candidacy, to head an institution that is dying – LA PRENSA, Nov 22