By Phenyo Selinda
In a time when public trust in government institutions is strained, Public Service and Administration Minister Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi has emerged as a key figure advocating for the revitalisation of South Africa’s public sector. As Public Service Month unfolds, the Minister has highlighted the need to restore professionalism, ethical standards, and public confidence in the sector.
Speaking during an interview at his Batho Pele House office in Pretoria, Buthelezi emphasized that while the challenges facing the Public Service are significant, they are not insurmountable. Public Service Month, observed annually in September, provides an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of public servants while also addressing the sector’s longstanding issues, including corruption, inefficiency, and over-politicisation.
Buthelezi stressed that this month should be used to honor the dedication of public servants who have chosen to work for the government despite the more lucrative opportunities in the private sector. He highlighted that public servants play a vital role in delivering essential services to millions of South Africans, often under difficult conditions. “We are not going to use Public Service Month to highlight the wrongs… We must not create a perception that everything is rotten in the Public Service,” Buthelezi said, stressing the importance of celebrating those who serve with integrity.
Professionalisation of the Public Service
The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) has taken steps to professionalise the public sector. In February 2024, Volume 1 of the Directive on Human Resources Management and Development for Public Service Professionalisation was released. This initiative aims to enhance accountability, integrity, and efficacy within the sector.
Buthelezi has reiterated that South Africa’s public service was once regarded as a model of professionalism and integrity, but over the years, political interference has led to its decline. “The public service was professional… But somewhere along the way, we started to politicise public servants,” the Minister said, noting that depoliticising the public service is a priority to restore its original values.
The National School of Government (NSG) and the Public Service Commission (PSC) are central to this effort. These institutions will help public servants undergo necessary training, focusing on ethics and good governance, which will, in turn, rebuild public trust. Buthelezi added, “If people are led by leaders who are unethical and neglect their duty, that is a problem.”
Tackling Corruption and Mismanagement
One of the cornerstones of Buthelezi’s vision is the fight against corruption. However, he pointed out that while lifestyle audits are important, they should not be the only focus in rooting out corruption. He emphasized the need for a broader cultural shift within the public service, encouraging public servants to adhere to ethical standards without the constant threat of audits or investigations.
He has also addressed the widespread issue of unresolved staff suspensions within the public service. Many suspended staff members have remained on the payroll for extended periods without resolution, which has contributed to inefficiencies within the system. Buthelezi acknowledged the problem and mentioned that the DPSA is working on a report to address the matter.
Public Service Wage Bill
Buthelezi has also responded to concerns about the “ballooning” public service wage bill. Contrary to public perception, he argued that the public service is not overstaffed but rather understaffed in critical areas such as policing and healthcare. The perceived wage bill issue, he said, is more a reflection of South Africa’s stagnant economic growth than an actual overextension of government resources.
Innovating for the Future
Despite the challenges, Buthelezi has praised public servants for their innovative approaches to improving government efficiency. However, he cautioned that innovation must benefit all South Africans, particularly those who rely on public services for essential needs like healthcare and education.
As Public Service Month continues, a series of initiatives are being rolled out, including service delivery site inspections, roadblocks, and dialogues aimed at enhancing services for persons with disabilities. Additionally, ethics training and the introduction of the Ethics Committee Procedure will form part of efforts to instil a stronger sense of duty and ethics among public servants.
Buthelezi’s vision for the public service extends beyond the present; he envisions a capable state that will serve future generations. During the launch of Public Service Month, the Minister emphasised that the current generation of public servants must lay the groundwork for a future where all South Africans, especially those unable to afford private services, can rely on a strong and ethical public sector.
As he puts it, “We are the alpha and omega; the responsibility we carry is monumental.” It is clear that under Buthelezi’s leadership, South Africa’s public service is being steered towards a future where professionalism, ethical conduct, and public trust are at the forefront
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