The Acting Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service has issued a circular reminding all civil servants to maintain political neutrality and professional conduct ahead of the forthcoming general election.
“The Civil Service is apolitical, performing its functions in a neutral, impartial way,” Pita Tagicakirewa states in a circular dated October 24.
He cites the Civil Service Act 1999 and emphasizes that civil servants must uphold the Civil Service Values and Code of Conduct, and refrain from engaging in any political activity or making statements of an administrative nature.
The circular warns that failure to comply may constitute misconduct under established disciplinary procedures.
“All Ministries must ensure that officers are adequately briefed on the content of this Circular and that any breaches are dealt with in accordance with the Discipline Guideline,” he adds.
The circular supersedes all previous guidance on political activities by civil servants.
