Gaps in Govt hiring oversight raise concern

The Public Service Commission (PSC) audited just 8% of government job hires during the 2024/25 financial year, sparking concerns over transparency and administrative oversight.

The audits were done at 10 government offices, ministries, agencies (OMAs) and regional councils (RCs) to assess compliance with recruitment procedures, qualifications, promotions and adherence to public service regulations.

PSC chairperson Patrick Nandago last week announced that the audits formed part of 10 human resource reviews conducted at various institutions and regional councils during the reporting period.

“A total number of 796 files were audited out of 10 410 staff members on board at the indicated OMAs and regional councils.

“This represents 8% of total staff members on board at 10 audited OMAs and RCs,” he said.

Nandago said delays in resolving these matters remain a concern, with the commission often unable to finalise cases on time due to slow or incomplete submission of information.

He said the audits are important because they provide insight into challenges within the public service.

After challenges are identified, action is taken through the commission and partners such as the Public Service Management Department and the secretary to the Cabinet, he said.

The commission said the lack of timely responses from institutions hampers its ability to effectively address grievances raised by public servants.

“Beyond compliance, our human resource audits serve as a strategic tool for enhancing transparency, improving efficiency, boosting employee satisfaction, strengthening overall governance and service delivery in the public service,” he said.

‘GHOST EMPLOYEES’

Independent Patriots for Change shadow minister for finance Michael Mwashindange yesterday said the figures the PSC released are deeply concerning.

“When over 90% of these records go unchecked, the system becomes vulnerable to irregular appointments, ghost employees as it was in the past, and payroll inconsistencies,” he said.

Mwashindange said it also limits transparency and undermines public confidence in government institutions.

“Citizens expect that public funds are managed responsibly, and incomplete audits create doubt about whether this standard is being met,” he said.

Mwashindange said the PSC must be adequately resourced and supported to expand audit coverage.

“Ultimately, strengthening these audits is essential to restoring confidence in public administration, safeguarding public funds, and upholding the principles of good governance,” he said.

‘SLEEPING ON THE JOB’

Political analyst Ben Mulongeni says the low audit coverage points to a serious failure in public service oversight.
“We are sleeping on the job,” he says.

Mulongeni questions how any system can function effectively if only a small fraction of its work is completed.

“What if you only processed 8% of identity documents in a year, or only 8% of people voted? Would that be acceptable?” he asks.

He says applying such a standard across sectors would lead to collapse.

“If agriculture only produced 8%, are we going to eat? If you vaccinate only 8% of your livestock, what are you going to sell?” he asks.

Mulongeni says poor audit coverage creates room for irregular appointments and weakens trust in government institutions.

“There is no effectiveness, no accountability and no transparency.”

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.