He stated that section 4.3.7 of the Civil Services code of conduct explicitly prohibits civil servants from engaging in party political activities while executing their duties in the workplace.
He made these remarks in response to a question posed by Hon. Musa Badjie, the National Assembly member for Tallinding.
The member requested the minister to clarify for the esteemed Assembly whether it is lawful and consistent with regulations, rules, or procedures for civil servants or holders of civil service positions to engage in political activities.
In response to the inquiries, Minister Bouye emphasised that General Order 03.10.4 affirms that every officer has the right to hold their own political views and, if qualified, to participate in elections by casting their vote.
He remarked that individuals are allowed to join a political party or organisation; however, they cannot hold any office—whether paid or unpaid, permanent or temporary—within any political party or organisation. Furthermore, they are prohibited from making speeches, participating in demonstrations, or otherwise publicly indicating their support for any political entity, person, or policy, nor shall they be obligated to do so as part of their duties.
He clarified that the aforementioned general order and provisions of the civil service code of conduct align with section 171 of the constitution, which stipulates that a “person holding an office in a public service shall not hold office in any political party.”
He stated that, in light of the above, it is inappropriate for civil servants or those in civil service positions to be overtly engaged in political activities.
Hon. Badjie, in his follow-up question, inquired whether the minister's ministry actively monitors the political landscape for public service holders who are partaking in these activities and imposes the penalties outlined in the book.
In response, the minister stated that his ministry does not concern itself with the political landscape, as their primary focus is on office operations and the productivity of their staff.
Hon. Badjie emphasized that the laws are designed to address the behavior of civil servants in public settings. He questioned how the ministry could hold individuals accountable for engaging in political activities if it does not consider the political landscape.
The minister underscored the expectation that should politicians have concerns regarding the conduct of civil servants within the political sphere, they can formally submit a complaint. The Public Service Commission will then conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
Hon. Assan Touray, the representative for Bakau, inquired about the measures his ministry is implementing to ensure that civil servants refrain from engaging in politics openly.
The minister stated that the laws and regulations he referenced are provided to civil servants upon their hiring and are also readily accessible on the PMO Office website for their consideration.
He stated, "If any individual violates this rule, it is the duty of anyone wishing to file a complaint to submit a report to us. The Public Service Commission will then conduct a thorough investigation."
