Public Service Commission Chairperson Patrick Nandago has revealed that the service performance has declined significantly, raising concerns about professionalism, productivity and employees prioritising personal business over their official duties.
Nandago made the remarks during an engagement with stakeholders at the Kavango East Regional Council.
Nandago urged regional political leaders to support managers at all levels in addressing these concerns and improving service delivery.
He criticised public servants who sell goods during working hours or use office time for personal activities while members of the public wait for assistance.
"The number of managers has increased. We have so many managers at all levels of government, but when it comes to output, there is zero. Some even lock themselves in their offices and start praying while people are waiting to be served. Those who want to pray should do so before leaving their homes, rather than turning public offices into churches. They are always carrying bags to sell Vetkoeks and Forever Living products. Colleagues, is this now the new way of running the administration? Public offices are there to serve the public, not to run our businesses."
During a courtesy visit to Kavango East Governor Hamunyera Hambyuka, Nandago also raised concerns over allegations that employment opportunities were being sold, potentially disadvantaging qualified candidates who could not afford to pay for positions.
“It is an incredibly troubling situation, and these are the matters we are addressing. We seek a system that is both transparent and predictable. What is happening is illegal and represents a severe form of corruption. These are concerns we will discuss with our stakeholders to ensure we establish a fair system, as the policies are quite clear.”
Governor Hambyuka acknowledged that rumours of people paying for employment opportunities were circulating in the community, including allegations that some applicants were asked to pay money or provide cattle in exchange for jobs.
“Those are rumours, not yet confirmed. However, when you look at the community, you might also be convinced by the way people speak about these issues. But you cannot act on them because they have never been reported to the Anti-Corruption Commission. Sometimes, you see people complaining on social media that someone was told in advance that they would get the position."
The governor urged the Public Service Commission to investigate the allegations and take appropriate action if wrongdoing is established.
Nandago and a delegation of commissioners began their regional engagements last week in the Zambezi Region.
They are in Kavango East on Monday and Tuesday before proceeding to Kavango West on Wednesday.
The visits aim to provide a platform for direct engagement between the Commission, regional leadership and other stakeholders on matters affecting public service delivery.