(vi) Carry out information and sensitization activities to prevent torture and other cruel,
inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment;
(vii) Contribute to the formulation of reports the Government presents to international
organizations, pursuant to its treaty obligations in the area of human rights;
(viii) Visit detention facilities where necessary and inform the Government about the prison
situation of detainees, and
(ix) Prepare an annual report for the attention of the Government on the human rights
situation.
44. It cooperates, within the limits of its authority, with international human rights
organizations and publishes the opinions and reports it adopts.
Office of the Ombudsman:
45. The Office of the Ombudsman was instituted by Law No. 97-022 of 14 March, 1997 as an
independent authority tasked with the settlement of disputes between the authorities and the
people in the execution of its public service missions. It is appointed for a non-renewable 7year mandate and cannot be dissolved before it has served out its mandate. It is also
financially autonomous.
46. It is tasked with receiving complaints from any natural person or legal entity concerning
the running of State departments, local authorities, public establishments and any organ with
a public service mission in their relations with the people.
47. The Office of the Ombudsman presents to the President of the Republic and the National
Assembly an annual report which is published.
High Communications Council:
48. The High Communication Council was established by Law No. 92-038/AN-RM of 24
December, 1992. It advises on the conditions of production, programming and dissemination
in the area of print and electronic communication and issues relating to the guarantees of the
freedom of communication. It rules on the allocation or withdrawal of frequencies to private
radio and television stations and ensures compliance with the specifications concerning them.
49. It must be consulted before the adoption of any legislative or regulatory measure relating
to print and electronic communication. It takes account of the communication requirements
of the rural communities and encourages cultural integration as well as the development and
full dissemination of national languages.
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