GOVERNMENT has called on civil servants to match their long-awaited salary increases with greater commitment and improved performance.
The civil servants were further warned against absenteeism and declining productivity in the public sector.
Minister of Public Service Mabulala Maseko said government expected the salary review to translate into tangible improvements in service delivery across all ministries.
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“Government has fulfiled its part. With the new increases and the backpay that will follow, we expect civil servants to reciprocate through dedication, punctuality and high performance,” he said.
The minister emphasised that the public deserved value for every cent spent on the civil service. “We must see fewer cases of absenteeism and underperformance. Members of the pubic deserve efficient, timely and quality service from those employed to serve them,” he added.
Maseko also commended the consultative approach taken during the negotiations between the ministry of public service and the public sector unions, describing the process as ‘balanced and progressive’.
“We are pleased with the outcome of the review and the spirit of collaboration shown throughout the discussions. Now that the agreements are in place, we expect all government departments to focus on results,” he said.
The salary review, which comes into effect this month, covers approximately 44 000 civil servants across various ministries. Maseko described the review as ‘a new chapter’ for the public service, one that should reignite professionalism and pride in public duty.
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“This should not just be about money. It must be about renewed dedication to excellence and accountability,” he said.
He added that for many civil servants, the message was clear; the salary adjustments come with heightened expectations from the nation they serve.
Meanwhile, government has reached an agreement with public sector unions for a phased implementation of the salary review. Although the full implementation of the consultant’s recommendations was approved, backpay will be disbursed in two instalments, 15% in the current phase and the remaining 85% in the next financial year. While some union members expressed disappointment that the initial payment was lower than expected, they ultimately endorsed the collective agreement, marking a major milestone in government’s effort to improve worker welfare while demanding stronger performance in return.
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