The Verkhovna Rada has adopted in the second reading and as a whole the draft law No. 13266, which provides for the introduction of the position of Military Ombudsman in Ukraine. The corresponding decision was supported by 283 members of parliament.
This is reported by Finway
Appointment and Powers of the Military Ombudsman
According to the new law, the Military Ombudsman will be appointed by the President of Ukraine for a term of five years. The same person cannot hold this position for more than two consecutive terms. Only citizens of Ukraine aged 30 and older, who have higher education no lower than a specialist or master’s degree, are fluent in the state language, have a high moral reputation and impeccable conduct, and have permanently resided in Ukraine for the last five years and meet health requirements, can apply for the position.
The Military Ombudsman cannot be an active military serviceman, a member of a political party, hold citizenship or nationality of another state, nor have overdue alimony payments exceeding six months. Candidates are required to undergo a verification process in accordance with the anti-corruption law and submit a declaration of income.
Tasks, Reporting, and Funding of the Institution
The law defines the legal status, tasks, rights, and obligations of the Military Ombudsman, as well as the procedure for forming their office. Special attention is given to the procedure for submitting and reviewing complaints, conducting inspections, and annual reporting to the Verkhovna Rada. By March 30 each year, the Military Ombudsman must submit a report on their activities to the President, which is also published on the official website of this institution.
The activities of the Military Ombudsman will be funded from the state budget.
“Iryna Herashchenko emphasized that the appointment of the ombudsman by the president contradicts the Constitution and the principles of independence of this institution.”
She also expressed hope that after the end of martial law, the appointment of the Military Ombudsman will be carried out by parliament on a competitive basis, as is customary in most countries around the world. Relevant amendments to the legislation are already being prepared for this purpose.