Parliament is considering the Public Service Amendment Bill [B13B-2023], which proposes a number of changes to how government departments are managed. One of the most important changes is the shift of certain administrative powers from Ministers and Members of Executive Councils (MECs) to Heads of Department (HoDs). These changes could affect how decisions are made in the public service - especially in areas like appointments, dismissals, and departmental management.
This is your opportunity to share your views. Whether you support or oppose these reforms, your input is officially recognised and will be submitted to Parliament.
Key Features of the Bill
- Devolution of Administrative Powers: The Bill transfers key responsibilities—such as hiring, dismissal, probation, and performance management—from political executives to departmental heads. Ministers and MECs would retain strategic oversight but not day-to-day management functions.
- Expanded Role of the Director-General in the Presidency: The Bill formalises the Director-General’s coordination and oversight functions across departments, aligning with goals in the National Development Plan (NDP).
- Clarification of Roles: The Bill defines the roles of the President and Premiers in relation to Heads of Department more clearly.
- Political Neutrality Provision: Heads of Department and their direct reports would no longer be allowed to hold political office while serving in these roles.
- New Mechanism for Salary Overpayments: The Bill outlines how departments may recover funds in cases of overpayment, while complying with Constitutional Court rulings.
You are invited to:
- Support the Bill in its current form.
- Oppose the Bill entirely.
- Support or oppose specific parts of the Bill (for example, the transfer of powers or the restrictions on political involvement).
Your submission can be short or detailed, and it will be sent directly to Parliament.
About DearSA – Where Data Meets Democracy
DearSA is South Africa’s leading public participation platform, empowering citizens to have a direct say in government decisions that impact their lives. We bridge the gap between residents and policymakers by ensuring that public input is collected, analyzed, and presented effectively to decision-makers.
DearSA, is where data meets democracy, ensures that public participation directly influences policy decisions. By completing this form, your comments will be sent to Parliament for consideration.
How Can You Help?
Share this campaign link with your neighbours, friends, family, and colleagues so they too can submit their comment to Parliament. Let’s stand together and be heard—a stronger Constitution starts with you!
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