Discuss the characteristics of the civil service.
Explanation
Characteristics of the Civil Service include:
(i) Neutrality: The civil service has to be politically neutral. It cannot take part in partisan politics and if any member wants to contest elections, wants to do so, the option for such member is to resign.
(ii) Permanence: The civil service is a permanent government institution and cannot change with any government and even the one that created it. There is job security for the workers.
(iii) Impartiality: In the civil service, workers are expected to show faith in any government in power. They should serve any government in power without fear or favour, their political leaning and interest not withstanding.
(iv) Anonymity: There is anonymity in the civil service. The civil servants cannot speak to the public especially the press on official issues unless permitted to do so by the minister or permanent secretary. Ministers or Director – Generals have power to speak on issues of government and not the subordinates.
(v) Merits: Employment of workers into the civil service should be based on merits, to enhance productivity.
(vi) Expertise: Civil servants should be experts in the performance of their functions and should display a high level of expertise in this regard.