By Amadou Manjang
The Gambia government will investigate civil servants accused of engaging in political activities if a formal complaint is lodged, the Minister of Public Service, Administrative Reform, Policy Coordination & Delivery, Babucarr Bouye, told lawmakers on Tuesday.
Responding to parliamentary questions about the political involvement of civil servants, Mr. Bouye said his ministry does not actively monitor government employees’ political activities because its staff lacks the training to do so. However, he emphasized that formal complaints would trigger an investigation by the Public Service Commission or his ministry.
“If any member of the public feels that there is a civil servant involved in politics and wants the matter to be addressed, ……..that person should write to the Public Service Commission or to the ministry to do the necessary investigation,” Mr. Bouye said.
Gambian law prohibits civil servants from political participation that could compromise their impartiality. According to the country’s Code of Conduct for Civil Servants, Section 4.1, states government employees are barred from holding office in political parties or publicly demonstrating support for one. Section 4.3 states that they must avoid political party activities while on duty, while Section 6.1.2 categorises active political participation as misconduct.
Mr. Bouye insisted that all civil servants are provided with the Code of Conduct immediately after being employed to ensure they are aware of their obligations.
“Whoever breaks the rules, and the Public Service Commission is notified, we will launch the necessary investigation,” he said.
The question of political neutrality among civil servants has been a recurring issue in The Gambia. While the law mandates their impartiality, some critics argue that political affiliations often influence appointments and promotions within the public sector. Others contend that civil servants, like all citizens, should have the right to express political opinions as long as their professional duties remain unaffected.
With the government now reiterating its commitment to enforcing these rules, the issue is likely to remain a bone of contention in the country’s evolving political landscape.
