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‘Those who hold public office at any level must disclose their personal financial status before accepting positions of responsible decision-making in the public sector’.
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The public sector is a government-controlled part of the economy, consisting of central government, local authorities, public corporations and nationalized industries. The main aim of the public sector is not to make a profit but to serve the country. They are responsible for providing vital services at reasonable prices, distribution of profits to the population and safeguarding jobs rather than engaging in retrenchment. They are a major employer within the economy and provide exhilarating jobs for individuals who have a keen interest in working for the government. In the public sector, there are certain principles for individuals who hold positions at any level in public office. While in office, decisions should be taken solely in terms of the public interest and not in order to gain financial or other material advantages for themselves, other institutes or political parties. They should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals that might influence them in the performance of their official duties. They also have a duty to declare any private interest relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest. Apart from these principles, there is the Integrity of Public Life Act which deals with the issue of financial disclosure. With reference to the Act no. 8 of 1997, every person in public life should file a declaration of his income, assets and liabilities with the Commission. The declaration should be in the form set out in the Second Schedule and may be accompanied, if the declarant so wishes, by a statement relating to the net worth of the declarant certified by a chartered or certified accountant. A declaration should be submitted on or before 31st May in every year and file in respect of the years immediately preceding the declaration required under the Act. With respect to those who hold public office at any level, having to disclose their personal financial status before accepting positions of responsible decision-making, may pose some concerns for the individual. There are some individuals who would support the Act but there are others who would oppose to such practice in the public sector. For an individual who support the Act of disclosing their personal financial status with the Commission, it would be considered as an aim to counteract corruption in the public office.
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