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AOMA Joins the African Ombudsman Community in Mourning the Passing of Dr. Paulo Tjipilica
2025/09/17 12:52:22 PM
15 September 2025 – The African Ombudsman and Mediators Association (AOMA), together with the African Ombudsman Research Centre (AORC) and the entire African Ombudsman community, mourns the passing of Dr. Paulo Tjipilica, the first Ombudsman of the Republic of Angola and former President of AOMA. Dr. Tjipilica passed away on 15 September 2025, leaving behind a profound legacy in the fields of justice, human rights, and Ombudsmanship.
Born on 21 December 1939 in Mungo, Bailundo, Huambo Province, Dr. Tjipilica distinguished himself as both a scholar and a statesman. He earned a law degree from the Classical University of Lisbon and pursued studies in philosophy and theology at the Cristo Rei Seminary. His intellectual depth was matched by an unwavering commitment to justice, human dignity, and governance.
In 2005, Dr. Tjipilica was elected by the National Assembly as the first Ombudsman of Angola, a position he faithfully held until 2017. During this tenure, he worked tirelessly to strengthen the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights, freedoms, and guarantees. His efforts left an enduring legacy of courage, wisdom, and integrity, establishing the foundation for the independence and effectiveness of Angola’s Ombudsman institution.
From 2010 to 2014, Dr. Tjipilica served as President of AOMA. Under his visionary leadership, AOMA achieved observer status at the African Union, strengthened its collaborations with the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI) and the African Commission, and saw the OR TAMBO Declaration come into being—the first international standards for Ombudsmanship in Africa and globally. His tenure united Ombudsman institutions across Africa, promoting accountability, fairness, and good governance. Notably, the first office supplies for the African Ombudsman Research Centre (AORC), including printers and laptops, were generously donated by his office, reflecting his unwavering support for institutional growth.
Beyond his Ombudsman roles, Dr. Tjipilica also served as Minister of Justice, a representative to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and Presidential Advisor, demonstrating his versatile commitment to public service and national development.
Dr. Tjipilica’s passing is a monumental loss not only for Angola but for the entire African Ombudsman community. He was a true Pan-Africanist, a principled giant of integrity, and a gentleman whose life exemplified service, leadership, and dedication to justice. His achievements continue to inspire all who work to uphold the rule of law and defend human rights across the continent.
AOMA and the African Ombudsman Research Centre extend heartfelt condolences to the family of Dr. Tjipilica, the Office of the Ombudsman of Angola, and the people of Angola. Messages of condolences may be sent to diciprovjus@gmail.com.
As we reflect on his life, we honor Dr. Tjipilica’s extraordinary legacy, which will continue to guide and inspire the African Ombudsman community for generations to come.
Rest in Peace, Dr. Paulo Tjipilica. Your legacy endures.
