‘ACT DRAFTED WITHOUT CUEPACS’ INPUT’
Cuepacs neither consulted nor involved in drafting Public Service Act, says president
THE Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs) claimed that it was left in the dark about discussions and drafting of the Public Service Act despite it being “99 per cent” about the civil servants.
Its president, Datuk Azih Muda, said he was not aware of it and hoped an explanation would be
forthcoming on why Cuepacs had been left out.
“Cuepacs is the umbrella body for civil servants... the government needs to acknowledge our existence and we should be part of the process.
“Cuepacs should have a voice in drafting the law,” he said when asked to comment on the planned Public Service Act, which is aimed at increasing transparency and integrity of the civil service.
The bill will pave the way for separation of powers between civil servants and the administration.
It was reported that the tabling of the bill at the ongoing parliamentary session had been postponed as there were areas that needed to be “redefined and harmonised”.
Asli Centre of Public Policy Studies chairman Tan Sri Dr Ramon Navaratnam said the implementation of the act was vital as it outlined the duties and responsibility of civil servants and protected them from unfair and unreasonable political interference.
He said the traditional duties of a civil servant had been affected by some politicians with different values in regard to the doctrine of separation of power.
The civil servants, he said, no longer felt empowered to give honest advice and chose to remain quiet rather than speak up fearing being sidelined and marked.
“Previously, civil servants could always state their objections, reservations or concerns by writing to the minister.
“This tradition has diminished and civil servants feel insecure about giving advice when a minister makes political and unreasonable decisions that may not be in the best interest of the public.
“The message is don’t speak up, don’t give honest advice because you won’t be promoted, you will be transferred or looked upon unfavourably.”
He said the Special Cabinet Committee on Anti-Corruption should carry out extensive consultation not only with senior civil servants still in service, but also the Administration and Diplomatic Officers (PTD) alumni in drafting the act.