The new Cabinet and establishment of the Government of National Unity (GNU) is an important milestone in the existence of the 7th Administration, and public servants and other organs of the state must support the transition and ensure continuity of quality service delivery.
This is according to Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya who briefed the media in Pretoria on Monday.
He said public servants are expected to serve and support the newly elected leadership and government of the day in a dedicated, competent and professional manner in executing priority policies.
“The PSC was established to oversee the public service, amongst others, for an efficient and effective performance of public administration,” Gxoyiya said, adding that the GNU marks a significant moment in the nation's journey towards an accountable and transparent governance.
“A more serious warning should go to the entire public service to rethink how it engages with the citizens, but most importantly to ensure that it is guided by the values and principles governing public administration,” he said.
Gxoyiya said such a public service will reinforce citizen’s trust in the constitutional democracy.
“It is further a call to citizens to be vigilant and hold government accountable for service delivery,” he said.
Gxoyiya said as part of fulfilling its oversight mandate in this period of transition, the commission has released the Guide on Governance Practice for Executive Authorities and Heads of Department (2024) and a Circular to advise Executive Authorities, Heads of Department and employees regarding the prevention and management of unlawful instructions.
“The Guide on Governance Practice for Executive Authorities and Heads of Department provides a simplified reference source for Executive Authorities and Heads of Department on processes and procedures that are essential to promote good governance and performance in the public service.
“It covers work emanating from the PSC’s mandate and provides reference to other critical sources of information from other departments.
“This PSC Guide is intended to supplement Guides and Manuals issued by The Presidency, the Department of Public Service and Administration, the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation and the National Treasury as part of readiness,” he said.
Gxoyiya said the commission encouraged Executive Authorities and Heads of Department to familiarise themselves with the contents of the guide.
The Guide is accessible at www.psc.gov.za under Documents, Reports, 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
