The approval of the public service amendment regulations 2023 is the first step towards reviewing the public service regulations to align with the Public Service Amendment Bill, says Public Service and Administration Minister, Ms Noxolo Kiviet.
Speaking at the official launch of the enactment of the Public Service Amendment Regulations on Friday, October 27, 2023, Minister Kiviet said she approved the enactment of the Public Service Amendment, 2023 with effect from 1 November 2023.
The first step towards a broader effort of reviewing the entire Public Service Regulations to align with the Public Service Amendment Bill is currently under consideration in Parliament.
In keeping with government’s commitment to reducing red-tape and onerous reporting, the Amendment Regulations have removed all reporting requirements in the Public Service Regulations. This initiative to remove red tape is also being prioritised as the other Determinations and Directives issued under the Public Service Act are reviewed.
The new Public Service Amendment Regulations are aimed at providing clarity where interpretation challenges exist and streamlining reporting and administrative procedures.
According to Minister Kiviet, a capable, professional, and ethical public service can only be built on ethical public servants who are honest, trust-worthy, and reliable.
The Amendment Regulations have strengthened the Code of Conduct for employees by requiring that employees must maintain the confidentiality of information, must report non-compliance with the Act, refrain from claiming intellectual property over work product.
The Minister said one way of truly achieving a professionalised public service goal, it is necessity of the conduct of employees to be exemplary.
Since fostering a culture of anti-corruption and ethics is a critical priority for government, particularly within the public service, the Regulations introduce provisions to require heads of departments to establish robust systems that actively encourage the reporting of corruption and unethical conduct.
These systems, according to Minister Kiviet, prioritise the confidentiality and proper management of allegations, ensuring individuals can come forward with information in a safe and secure environment.
An information system will be implemented to effectively record and monitor allegations, maintain comprehensive records of outcomes, and identify any systemic weaknesses and recurring risks.
This system will play a pivotal role in ongoing efforts to combat corruption, enabling departments to promptly identify and address vulnerabilities within their environments.
The availability of systems for reporting corrupt activities is only effective if employees and citizens are aware of the systems. Therefore, the Regulations now require a head of department to ensure employees and citizens are aware of this system.
Also speaking at the event that was held on a zoom webinar, Deputy Minister Dr Chana Pilane-Majake said: “the launch marks a significant milestone in our journey towards building a capable and ethical public service in the country.
“The launch of these regulations is just a part of our journey. The implementation process is an ongoing endeavour.”
The Deputy Minister said the gazzetting of the regulations on 27 October 2023 for implementation on 01 November 2023, will ensure that the regulations are legally recognised and accessible to all stakeholders.
“Let us remember that the journey towards a capable and ethical public service is an ongoing one. The Public Service Amendment Regulations serve as a foundation for further improvements and reforms in our public service.
“Let us continue to work together, fostering a culture of integrity, accountability, and excellence in the delivery of public services, she said.”
DPSA Director-General, Ms Yoliswa Makhasi said: “the Public Service Amendment Regulations serve as a catalyst for positive change, providing a solid foundation for enhancing transparency, accountability, and professionalism within our public institutions.
“Throughout the development of these regulations, our primary focus has been on addressing the challenges and gaps that have hindered the optimal functioning of our Public Service.
“We have carefully considered stakeholder input, expert recommendations, and international best practices to ensure that these regulations are comprehensive, practical, and tailored to the unique context of our country.
“Implementation and effective enforcement are key to translating these regulations into tangible improvements in our Public Service. It requires the collective efforts and commitment of all stakeholders involved—the government, public servants, civil society, and the citizens we serve.
“I encourage all of us to embrace these regulations as an opportunity for positive change.”
