Civil servants are the backbone of any government, playing a pivotal role in the efficient functioning of public sector institutions.
Their commitment to supporting the government of the day is paramount for the success and stability of a nation's public administration.
The six core Madani philosophical values, namely Sustainability, Prosperity, Innovation, Respect, Trust and Compassion as advocated by the prime minister, are testament to his genuineness in revitalising the machinery of the public sector.
The effort by the government imbues fresh ideas so that civil servants uphold its goals and policies, emphasising how the measures benefit the public sector and, by extension, the entire nation.
Primarily, the efforts taken in the public sector are to ensure that civil servants adhere to the principles of impartiality, neutrality and serve the government of the day.
The decisive pathways charted by both the chief secretary to the government and the Public Service Department director-general are praiseworthy as they ensure the following values are sustained firmly.
CONTINUITY AND STABILITY
One of the fundamental reasons civil servants support the government of the day is for continuity and stability of the public administration.
Government policies and priorities may change with each election cycle, and civil servants form the bridge that ensures a seamless transition. Their expertise and institutional memory help maintain essential public services, preventing disruption and ensuring that the government's objectives are met consistently.
EFFICIENT IMPLEMENTATION OF POLICIES
Civil servants are responsible for the execution of government policies.
When they abide by the government's agenda, they are better equipped to translate policies into action effectively.
Their support and cooperation are essential to carry out reforms, achieve development goals and address pressing issues in society, such as healthcare, education, infrastructure development as well as reduce red tape and all kinds of bureaucratic procedures.
PROFESSIONALISM AND EXPERTISE
Civil servants are typically career professionals with a wealth of experience and expertise in their respective fields.
Their commitment to supporting the government ensures that decisions are based on sound knowledge and evidence, rather than being influenced by political considerations alone.
This professionalism enhances the quality of government policies and programmes, ultimately benefiting the public.
ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY
Support from civil servants also contributes to accountability and transparency in the public sector.
By adopting impartiality, they are more likely to uphold the principles of good governance, including transparency, accountability and adherence to established rules and regulations.
This, in turn, fosters public trust and confidence in government institutions.
EFFECTIVE PUBLIC SERVICE DELIVERY
Public service delivery is a critical function of the government. Civil servants play a pivotal role in ensuring that services reach the citizens efficiently and effectively.
When civil servants uphold the government's agenda, they are more likely to adopt innovative solutions, improve service quality and enhance the overall delivery of public services.
ADAPTATION TO CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES
Society is dynamic, and challenges can change rapidly.
Therefore, civil servants should be more flexible in responding to emerging issues.
This may allow quick mobilisation of resources and expertise to address crises, whether they are health emergencies, economic downturns, or environmental disasters.
In essence, civil servants supporting the government of the day is not just important; it is essential for the effective functioning of the entire public sector and, ultimately, the well-being of a nation's citizens.
Their dedication to continuity, professionalism, accountability and service delivery is the bedrock upon which good governance and efficient public administration are built.
As such, fostering an environment where civil servants adhere to the government's goals and policies is a wise investment in the nation's future.
It ensures that the public sector remains responsive, adaptable and committed to serving the public interest, regardless of political changes.
Hence, the values and philosophical intricacies embedded in the Madani concept are a boost and further solidify the public sector.
* The writer is a senior research fellow of the National Institute of Public Administration