Pretoria – Public Service and Administration Minister Lindiwe Sisulu says the passing of the Public Administration Management Bill (PAM) is expected to change the face of the state at national, provincial and local levels.
Speaking at a stakeholder briefing on Thursday, she said the Bill is a major step forward in the building of an effective, efficient and ethical public service.
“I want to emphasize that the building of an effective, efficient and ethical Public Administration is not simply a matter of policy or strategic choice, the Constitution of South Africa instructs us all to do so,” the minister said.
Minister Sisulu said the Public Administration must be governed by the democratic values and principles enshrined in the Constitution.
“The Constitution also instructs that the above principles must apply to Public Administration in every sphere of Government, all the organs of State, and I want to emphasize, in all Public Enterprises as well.
“Furthermore, an effective, efficient and ethical Public Service is a central element in the building of a democratic developmental state as mandated by the National Development Plan (NDP),” the minister said.
Minister Sisulu explained that the rationale for passing the PAM Bill is compelling and authoritative.
“Together we will build a clean, professional and effective Public Service and State,” she said.
Among other things, the PAM Bill will prohibit Public and Administration officials from conducting business with the State and officials in public administration are going to be required to declare the financial and business interests of their immediate family members.
“Corruption, unethical conduct and lack of integrity produce outcomes that not only harm human society but undermine the very same progressive realisation of rights we seek to achieve.
“By prohibiting officials from conducting business with the State, government is eliminating incentives and opportunities for corruption and unethical conduct,” Minister Sisulu said. – SAnews.gov.za
