The Ombudsman Office had been temporarily closed to public personal consultations, due to the threats imposed by the coronavirus. 

The closure was immediately enforced on the day the State of Emergency was declared by the Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Dr. Sailele Malielegaoi, last Friday evening.

The notice was circulated through a statement signed by the Ombudsman, Maiava Iulai Toma, sent out on Monday, March 23.

"Given the looming threat of Corona Virus infection and the need for caution, the Office of the Ombudsman will be unable from now on to operate as fully as it would like," it reads.

"I hereby give notice that the Office will be closed to the public for personal consultations from today Friday 20 March 2020 until further notice.

"For any urgent matters, please contact Ms. Davina Rasch Salanoa on mobile 7626121 or email our office at [email protected]."

The state of emergency comprises 20 separate orders, which will also see the reduction of the number of public servants working to prevent the spread of coronavirus.