Investigating the president

Does the Ombudsman have the constitutional power to investigate the president? That is the question.

And the answer is: Yes.

According to Article XI Section 13 of our Constitution, the Office of the Ombudsman has the following powers, functions, and duties:

Investigate on its own, or, on complaint by any person, any act or omission of any public official, employee office or agency, when such act or omission appears to be illegal, unjust, improper or insufficient.

Request any agency for assistance and information necessary in the discharge of its responsibilities, and to examine, if necessary, pertinent records and documents.

Publicize matters covered by its investigation when circumstances so warrant with due prudence.

It is important to note that while the president may be removed from office only by impeachment, the Constitution does not exempt him from being investigated by the Ombudsman.

AMADO MUNDA, [email protected]