Public service workers asked to be non-partisan

Koforidua, April 1, GNA - Dr Kwasi A. Apea-Kubi, the Eastern Regional Minister, has asked public service workers to be non-partisan and support government of the day in the execution of its development plans.

He reminded workers that they were mandated to assist government to achieve its vision through the collaboration of all sectors of the Public Service.

Dr Apea-Kubi was speaking at the fifth Conference of Public Service Chief Executives, Chief Directors and Chairpersons of Governing Boards/Councils in Koforidua on Friday. The four-day conference was on the theme: 93Growth, Development and Job Creation: An Agenda for Public Services Agencies". He said that a public servant like any other Ghanaian could associate with or vote for any political party. Dr Apea-Kubi said that 93However, by virtue of the traditional role of public servants to serve and be loyal to the government of the day, they necessarily have to avoid overtly engaging in partisan politics". He cited that public servants must refrain from openly declaring themselves as members or candidates of political parties and other political activities likely to result in controversy Dr Apea-Kubi told the participants that they had a herculean task ensure that workers discharge their duties reasonably and in accordance with the rules and regulations governing the various professions.

"It is particularly important that as public servants, you ensure integrity, transparency, impartiality and honesty as your interact with Ministers, Members of Parliament (MPs) and the general public" Dr Apea-Kubi challenged them to provide honest and impartial information to political leaders to enable them to make informed decisions on topical issues.

He said: 93You should not deceive or knowingly mislead your Political leaders. As Chief Executives and Chief Directors you are the first hand advisers of your Ministers". Dr Apea-Kubi asked public servants to consider themselves as agents of government and strive to ensure effective implementation of national policies. Mrs Bridget Katsriku, Chairperson of the Public Services Commission, said the conference sought to among others examine issues relating to economic management and sound governance and to enable participants discus effective budget coordination, mechanism, monitoring and evaluation of government policies, and prospects and challenges of development planning in Ghana. Mrs Katsriku said it was expected that at the end of the conference: 91We as key actors and facilitators within the machinery of government would have come to a deeper appreciation of the principles and thinking underpinning some of the current policies and be in a better position to formulate and implement appropriate strategic plans and policies".