People’s lawyer’s office operating without a lawyer
by Silafaga Lalua
Tuvalu’s people’s lawyer’s office is now operating without a lawyer.
Tuvalu news gathered that the last people’s lawyer has resigned from her post.
Reports from Acting Attorney General Eselealofa Apinelu say that a request has been made to AusAID for new lawyers.
The department requested for a legal adviser to work in the Attorney General’s office and a people’s lawyer.
AusAID had approved the request and the request is currently going through the process of advertising in Australia, so there is no sure date of when the next people’s lawyer will be able to be in office.
For the time being, the clerk to the people’s lawyer will take note of all complains and/or claims from the public.
The more serious matters that need the prompt attention of a lawyer will all have to be redirected to the Attorney General’s office.
Availability of the only two lawyers within the AG’s office however is not guaranteed according to Ms Apinelu, as they already have commitments they have to tend to on a daily basis.
