ALL ALLEGATIONS MADE BY THE COOBER PEDY TIMES REFERRED TO THE OMBUDSMAN
Earlier in the year, I asked the Ombudsman to investigate a serious allegation made by the Coober Pedy Regional Times that I had instructed the then Acting CEO to not remind Councillors of their obligation to furnish a declaration of their interests which resulted in them losing office. If true, this would have potentially been an act of corruption or at the very least maladministration.
The Ombudsman has recently indicated it is not in the public interest to investigate the matter. Both of his letters can be found here
Recently the State Government decided to not contest a claim by George Naumovic alleging I had defamed and victimised him. I do not agree with the State Government’s decision. I believe it was made for commercial reasons. I would have preferred for the allegation to be heard and determined by the Magistrate. As a consequence of the matter not being heard I have asked the Ombudsman to investigate the matter.
On 19 August 2022 the Coober Pedy Times made a series of accusations about me. I have again asked the Ombudsman to investigate these allegations.
In all cases I have requested that the findings by the Ombudsman be made public.
I call on the Coober Pedy Times to abide by the system set up by our Parliament to deal with allegations like these which is to report them to the Ombudsman rather than raise them in public arena particularly when not one has been substantiated to date.
Tim Jackson
Administrator