Civil servants have been reminded to maintain strict political neutrality and impartiality ahead of Fiji’s forthcoming General Election.
The reminder comes in Circular 14/2026 issued by Permanent Secretary for Civil Service Pita Tagicakirewa on August 3, reiterating the obligations of civil servants under the Civil Service Act 1999 and the General Orders.
The circular follows an earlier Circular 16/2025 on political activities by civil servants.
It states that civil servants must ensure their conduct, both in the workplace and in public, does not compromise or appear to compromise the political neutrality, integrity or reputation of the Civil Service.
“Civil servants must not engage in, make or publish any political activity or statement that is prohibited under the relevant provisions of the General Orders,” the circular states.
Civil servants have also been warned against using their official position, authority, government premises, working hours, government resources or access to official information for political purposes or in support of any political party or candidate.
The Permanent Secretary has directed all Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Departments to ensure the circular is brought to the attention of all officers under their responsibility.
They have also been instructed to adequately brief officers on their obligations regarding political neutrality and political activities and take appropriate measures to prevent government premises, resources and working hours from being used for prohibited political activities.
Any alleged breach must be promptly addressed in accordance with the Discipline Guideline and other applicable procedures.
The circular cites Section 6(12) of the Civil Service Act 1999, which requires civil servants to conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the values of the Civil Service.
The directive comes as political parties prepare for the next General Election, with the Government reinforcing the requirement that public servants remain politically neutral while carrying out their official duties.
