The ombudsman's office is important for democracy and ombudswoman Maria Patakyova has been performing her work independently, highly professionally and with dedication, said President Zuzana Caputova when awarding a thank-you medal to the ombudswoman for her merits in the observance and protection of fundamental human rights and freedoms.
The reverse side of the office, however, is misunderstanding, ignorance and personal attacks from politicians, said Caputova. "You have experienced them to the fullest, and I appreciate that you have not backtracked from your principles," she said.
Current ombudswoman Maria Patakyova's term in office will expire on March 29. Patakyova already announced that she will not run for the post again. An ombudsman is elected by parliament for the period of five years.
