Govt warns public servants against comments on social media
Certain government officials are using social media to post status updates that not only undermine the government’s image but may also jeopardise national security, Ministry of Public Administration says
The Ministry of Public Administration has issued a warning to government employees regarding making comments on social media.
In a directive issued on Thursday 916 January), the ministry expressed concern over the increasing number of civil servants posting content that violates the "Guidelines for the Use of Social Media in Government Institutions, 2019."
The directive states that many government officials are using their personal social media accounts to share content that is derogatory to individuals, institutions, or the government, which is considered a breach of service rules and unacceptable behaviour.
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The ministry said such actions by public servants, who are entrusted with the responsibility of a democratic republic, not only violate the code of conduct but can also pose a threat to national security. These actions are considered misconduct under the Civil Servants (Conduct) Rules, 1979, it said.
Since last November, a form of conflict has emerged among BCS cadre officers centring on reforms in public administration. Officers of the BCS administration cadre have aligned on one side regarding issues such as promotion to the positions of deputy secretary and secretary, government-provided car loans, and postings.
On the other hand, officers from the other 25 BCS cadres have taken a different stance.
The administration cadre officers argue that all promotions to the deputy secretary position should be reserved exclusively for their cadre. In contrast, representatives from other cadres advocate for promotions to be based on merit through examinations. They also propose that ministries should be managed by officers from the relevant cadres.
The Public Administration Reform Commission has already announced that 50% of promotions to the position of deputy secretary will be allocated from the administration cadre, while the remaining 50% will come from the other 25 cadres. Currently, 70% of deputy secretary positions are filled from the administration cadre, with the remaining 30% coming from other cadres.
Additionally, the reform commission has indicated that it will recommend the dissolution of the education and health cadres.
Following the announcement, officers from various cadres organised protests, pen-down strikes, and human chains as part of their demonstration programmes. Simultaneously, many took to their personal social media accounts to voice their dissatisfaction and share critical opinions on the issue, highlighting the growing discontent and discord.
Meanwhile, nine officers from various cadres, including education, health, livestock, and fisheries, have been temporarily suspended for making adverse comments on social media. It has also been reported that comments from several others are currently under review.
