The Public Service Department has introduced revised guidelines that require civil servants to report any gifts they receive, are promised, or offered, if these gifts contain an element of gratification. The new rules, which took effect on September 30, aim to strengthen oversight and prevent abuse of power linked to gift-giving within the public service.
Under the updated regulations, officers must declare such gifts to the relevant authorities, in compliance with existing laws and policies. Heads of department are tasked with conducting regular monitoring of their units and must report any violations or complaints pertaining to the misuse of gift protocols.
Approval procedures have been clarified, requiring officers to seek consent before accepting gifts when necessary. Department heads are instructed to evaluate requests based on several criteria, including potential risks of perceived impropriety, the nature of the relationship between the giver and the recipient, and the impact on the department’s interests and reputation.
In cases involving gifts received by a department, applications for approval must contain detailed information about the donor, the gift’s purpose and nature, the relationship with the department, and an estimated value of the gift. Departments are expressly prohibited from soliciting gifts and must obtain approval from the ministry secretary-general or relevant controlling officer prior to acceptance.
The guidelines also stipulate that donors may be required to provide assurances that their gifts will not result in any reciprocal favors, rewards, or benefits from the department. Departments must confirm that donors have no vested interests with the government and that gifts serve the department’s benefit, offering value for money. Additionally, the government is barred from engaging in subsequent procurement involving the donor’s company for items such as spare parts, software, licenses, or maintenance to avoid conflicts of interest.
To further minimize potential conflicts, civil servants are prohibited from permitting paid messages of appreciation or condolences relating to themselves in any mass media outlets. This ban extends to television, radio, newspapers, billboards, buntings, and posters.
As a preventive measure, government facilities are required to display “no gift policy” posters prominently at building entrances and other appropriate locations to discourage gift-giving on official premises.
Noncompliance with the revised guidelines may lead to disciplinary proceedings under the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993. The regulations may also be extended to encompass state public services, statutory authorities, and local authorities, contingent upon adoption by the respective bodies.