The National Planning Commission (NPC) welcomes President Cyril Ramaphosa’s signing into law of the Public Service Commission Bill. This will strengthen the independence, mandate and powers of the Public Service Commission (PSC).
The enactment of the new Public Service Commission Act is also an important step towards the creation of the capable, ethical and developmental state, long envisaged in the National Development Plan: Vision 2030 (NDP).
The NDP emphasises that the development ambitions of the country depend on the nurturing of professional public service, staffed by skilled and committed public servants, supported by strong institutions and clear systems of accountability. Building state capability is fundamental to translating policy and planning into improved outcomes for citizens.
The NPC is particularly appreciative of the provisions that strengthen the institutional independence of the PSC, establishing a dedicated and independent Secretariat to support its work and extending its mandate to local government and public entities.
The infusion of stronger mechanisms for accountability, including the requirement for relevant authorities to report on progress in implementing decisions of the PSC is also a positive development. All these will contribute to improvements in the functioning of the state and the quality of services experienced by citizens.
The latest Public Service Bill reflects issues on which the NPC has provided sustained advice, regarding state capability, professionalising the public service and reinforcing institutions that promote accountability and ethical public administration. NPC Commissioner Mashupye Maserumule said: “Finally the NDP promise of a professionalised public service within a state that is capable, is being fulfilled, in our lifetimes.”
And yet, for all its value, the Public Service Bill will only be effective to the extent that it will be implemented, thoroughly consistently and coherently. For this to happen, we will need adequate institutional capacity and sustained commitment across the public administration to the constitutional values of professionalism, accountability, efficiency and ethical conduct.
As South Africa approaches the final years of the NDP 2030 period, strengthening the institutions responsible for the capability, integrity and performance of the state remains central to advancing the country’s long-term development objectives.
Enquiries:
Sandisiwe Mapine
Cell: 071 370 1048
E-mail: Sandisiwe@dpme.gov.za
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