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The Select Committee on Cooperative Governance and Public Administration (Traditional Affairs, Human Settlements and Water and Sanitation) has raised concerns about the lack of clear and measurable targets aimed at improving discipline within the public service.
 
The concerns emerged during the committee's engagement with the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) on its 2026/27 annual performance plan and revised strategic plan.
 
"Despite the fact that ensuring disciplinary processes are concluded timeously and addressing prolonged precautionary suspensions, where public servants continue to receive salaries at the expense of taxpayers without being productive, remain a ministerial priority, there appears to be a lack of clear measurable targets against which the department can be assessed. It is unacceptable to have a target that seemingly suggests the department will only monitor the situation," said the Chairperson of the Committee, Mr Mxolisi Kaunda.
 
The committee is of the view that the DPSA must move beyond monitoring and develop concrete interventions to address the persistent challenges associated with lengthy disciplinary processes. It is estimated that government spends approximately R216 million annually on the salaries of more than 526 suspended public servants. The committee therefore emphasised the need for clear, unambiguous and measurable targets that will drive the implementation of plans to expedite disciplinary cases and ensure that disciplinary processes are concluded within reasonable timeframes.
 
While welcoming the implementation of a central register for disciplinary matters, which will serve as an important monitoring and evaluation tool, the committee stressed that monitoring alone is insufficient. The committee remains of the view that robust follow-through mechanisms must be established to ensure accountability from both line departments and the DPSA in addressing cases of undue delay.
 
Linked to this concern, the committee highlighted the need for a comprehensive framework aimed at improving productivity across the public service. Members noted that the absence of a clear productivity framework continues to undermine efficiency and service delivery, with productivity levels having declined over time.
 
Meanwhile, the committee welcomed assurances from the department that the implementation of lifestyle audits across the public service is progressing steadily. The committee reiterated its view that lifestyle audits are a critical instrument in the fight against corruption and the promotion of integrity within the public service.
 
The committee urged the department to continue strengthening and expanding the programme over time to enhance public trust and confidence in the state.
 
The committee also welcomed assurances that work on the skills audit methodology framework is progressing satisfactorily. Members stressed the importance of rolling out skills audits across all national and provincial departments to ensure a capable, fit-for-purpose and professional public service that is equipped to deliver quality services to citizens.
 
In addition, the committee welcomed the assurance that the DPSA has not approved any deviations relating to the appointment of staff members in the private offices of executive authorities.
 
"The appointment of suitably qualified and skilled personnel is in line with the National Development Plan's vision of building a professional public service," Mr Kaunda emphasised.
 
The committee will continue to exercise oversight over the implementation of these initiatives to ensure that the public service becomes increasingly professional, accountable, productive and responsive to the needs of the people.

Issued by the Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of the Chairperson of the Select Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Mr Mxolisi Kaunda.