Public Divided Over Public Service Administration Bill

By Emily Setona

BETHLEHEM – A heated public consultation on the Public Service Administration Bill revealed strong opposition from attendees, who criticized key aspects of the proposed changes. Concerns centered on the transfer of employees between departments and the increasing power of Heads of Departments (HODs).

The Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and the Office of the Premier, led by Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus) councillor Armand Cloete, met with the community of Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality at Bohlokong New Hall on April 1 to discuss the bill.

Lehlohonolo Twala from Qwaqwa argued that HODs should not be granted more authority than elected officials. “Government employees are often seen as incompetent, with some prioritizing their side businesses over their official duties. The people voted for politicians, not departmental officials. HODs should not be given more power or higher salaries. We didn’t vote for them, so they shouldn’t receive more of our money. I do not support this bill,” Twala said.

Tumelo Molefe from Senekal voiced concerns about the bill’s provision allowing employee transfers between departments. “No employee should be transferred if they are under investigation or facing disciplinary action. In our country, officials are often moved from one department to another instead of being held accountable. Additionally, HODs should not be paid more than their qualifications justify. The government already spends too much on salaries,” Molefe stated.

Business owner Tiisetso Makhongoana from Senekal expressed frustration with the consultation process. “People must be given a chance to submit their inputs in writing. We cannot make proper contributions without fully understanding the bill. These bills affect our lives. Can we please have the opportunity to review the bill and provide written input?” she pleaded.

Dr. Robert Foromo from the Department of Public Service and Administration addressed concerns, clarifying aspects of the bill. “Most of the inputs do not support the bill, and people have explained why. However, I want to clarify one thing: assisting businesses is not the responsibility of government officials. That falls under the Department of Small Businesses,” Foromo stated.

The Public Service Administration Bill aims to improve governance by ensuring public service employees work more efficiently and are held accountable. The bill allows for the transfer of employees between government departments to enhance service delivery, provided it aligns with public sector needs. It also strengthens disciplinary measures against misconduct.

Community members during a Public hearing.

One of the most debated aspects is the shift of administrative power from political heads to HODs. This change would grant senior officials more control over operational decisions, reducing political interference in administrative matters. Supporters argue that this will improve efficiency, while critics fear it will make officials unaccountable to the public.

With many attendees expressing dissatisfaction, the debate over the bill is far from over. The government has encouraged citizens to submit written inputs to ensure all views are considered before the bill is finalized.