Civil Service Bill Under Scanner

With the government registering the Bill to Amend and Integrate Laws Relating to the Federal Civil Service at the Federal Parliament last Thursday, many employees in government offices and public enterprises have grown jittery, as they may receive a marching order once the bill becomes law. It was registered at Parliament one day before the end of the budget session. The bill will be the major content for deliberation in the upcoming winter session. Opinions are divided over its provisions. The government argues that the proposed amendments bring a paradigm shift in making the civil service accountable, efficient and result-oriented. The critics insist that, with a large number of senior officials being forced into retirement, it will create a big void of experienced and competent employees.