Independent oversight for fairness, accountability, and good governance
The Office of the Military Ombud was established to investigate complaints against the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and to ensure that such complaints are resolved in a fair, economical, and expeditious manner.
In terms of the Military Ombud Act, No. 4 of 2012, the Office is mandated to investigate written complaints lodged against the SANDF by current and former members of the Defence Force regarding their conditions of service, as well as complaints from members of the public concerning the official conduct of a member of the Defence Force.
Serving members of the SANDF are required, where applicable, to first attempt to resolve their dissatisfaction through the Individual Grievance process, as prescribed in the Individual Grievances Regulations, 2010, before approaching the Office of the Military Ombud.
The Office of the Military Ombud exists to:
To be a trusted, independent, impartial, and expeditious Military Ombud institution that upholds fairness, transparency, and ethical governance, contributing to professionalism, inclusivity, and accountability within the SANDF.
To investigate complaints, protect the fundamental rights of SANDF members, former members, and the public, and drive systemic reforms that enhance accountability, good governance, and conditions of service within the SANDF.
The Office of the Military Ombud is guided by values rooted in individual responsibility, ethical conduct, and organisational cohesion:
In support of the organisation’s values, the following supporting values have been institutionalised within the Office:
We are here to assist you and ensure your concerns are heard. If you have questions about our mandate, need guidance on lodging a complaint, or require further information about our services, please contact the Office of the Military Ombud using the channels below.
Our team is committed to responding promptly, professionally, and confidentially.
The Office of the Military Ombud is an independent institution established to investigate complaints against the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and to ensure that such complaints are resolved in a fair, economical and expeditious manner, in line with the Military Ombud Act.
