Today, Toronto City Council unanimously appointed Kwame Addo as Toronto’s Ombudsman, effective August 23.
Mr. Addo’s 30-year career is widely recognized in the Ombudsman community. He is passionate about advancing equity and fairness, human rights, breaking down barriers and amplifying the voice for those who need it most. Mr. Addo has served as Ombudsperson at Ryerson University, Director of Investigations and Interim Ombudsman with Ombudsman Toronto, and Investigator with Ombudsman Ontario.
Mr. Addo has also held positions on the Board of Directors and Education committee with the Society of Ontario Adjudicators and Regulators, faculty member, panelist and moderator with the Osgoode/Forum of Canadian Ombudsman and the City of Toronto Mayor’s Committee on Community and Race Relations.
Until Mr. Addo’s term begins, Deputy Ombudsman Ciaran Buggle will serve as interim Ombudsman from July 23 until August 22, following Susan E. Opler’s completion of term on July 22, 2021.
The Ombudsman is an independent officer, appointed by and reporting to Council, whose powers and duties are set out in the City of Toronto Act. Serving as an impartial investigator of the municipal government, the Ombudsman works to resolve public complaints through direct interventions and conflict mediation. The Ombudsman works to ensure that the City treats the public fairly, and services are provided in a fair and equitable manner for all. The office also conducts systemic investigations to solve problems that happen repeatedly, leading to improved service, efficiency and cost-savings.
More information about the Ombudsman is available on the Ombudsman Toronto website.
Quotes:
“On behalf of City Council, I am pleased to announce today that Kwame Addo will take on the role of Toronto’s Ombudsman. From his prior work with Ombudsman Toronto including being an integral part of the creation of the first Ombudsman Office for the City of Toronto, he truly exemplified commitment and dedication to the work of the Ombudsman. His passion and work in advancing equity and fairness is incredibly admirable. I am confident he will do a tremendous job for all Torontonians.”
– Mayor John Tory
“I am honoured by the opportunity to lead the Ombudsman team. To serve the people of this city is a privilege and I look forward to making a difference in their lives and improve service to the public. Transparency, fairness and respect are at the heart of our work and I am deeply committed to serving City Council and the people of Toronto.”
– Kwame Addo, Ombudsman
“Mr. Addo’s extensive experience in public administration, investigations and conflict resolution will be of great benefit to this role and the city. Mr. Addo brings with him a unique background through both his work and volunteer roles, decision-making through the lens of equity, and vast political acuity. I am confident that through his great work and leadership, he will uphold the vision, mission, and values of Ombudsman Toronto.”
– Councillor Stephen Holyday (Etobicoke Centre), Chair of the Ombudsman Selection Panel
Toronto is home to more than 2.9 million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.