Discuss any two important attributes which you consider important for a public servant. Justify your answer.

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Points to Remember:

  • Integrity
  • Impartiality

Introduction:

The effectiveness and trustworthiness of a government hinge on the quality of its public servants. These individuals are entrusted with significant power and responsibility, impacting the lives of citizens daily. While numerous attributes contribute to effective public service, two stand out as paramount: integrity and impartiality. These are not merely desirable qualities but fundamental pillars upon which a just and efficient public administration is built. A lack of either can erode public trust and undermine the very foundations of good governance.

Body:

1. Integrity:

  • Definition: Integrity, in the context of public service, refers to unwavering adherence to moral and ethical principles. It encompasses honesty, transparency, accountability, and a commitment to acting in the best interests of the public, even when faced with personal or political pressure. A public servant with integrity acts consistently with their values, avoids conflicts of interest, and readily accepts responsibility for their actions.

  • Justification: Integrity is crucial because it fosters public trust. When citizens believe their public servants are honest and ethical, they are more likely to cooperate with government initiatives, pay taxes willingly, and participate in democratic processes. Conversely, a perception of corruption or dishonesty can lead to cynicism, social unrest, and a breakdown of the social contract. Examples of breaches of integrity, such as embezzlement of public funds or accepting bribes, severely damage public trust and undermine the legitimacy of the government.

  • Examples: The actions of whistleblowers who expose corruption, despite potential personal risks, demonstrate high integrity. Conversely, instances of politicians using their office for personal gain highlight the devastating consequences of a lack of integrity.

2. Impartiality:

  • Definition: Impartiality demands that public servants treat all citizens equally, regardless of their background, beliefs, or affiliations. It requires making decisions based on objective criteria and established laws, rather than personal biases or political considerations. This includes avoiding favoritism, discrimination, and the abuse of power.

  • Justification: Impartiality is essential for ensuring fairness and equity in the delivery of public services. When public servants are impartial, citizens are more likely to feel that they are being treated justly and that the system is working for them. Impartiality also promotes social cohesion by preventing the creation of a system where certain groups are privileged over others. A lack of impartiality can lead to social division, inequality, and a sense of injustice.

  • Examples: A judge who makes decisions based solely on the law and evidence, regardless of the defendant’s social status or political connections, exemplifies impartiality. Conversely, instances of discriminatory practices in public service, such as unequal access to benefits or biased enforcement of laws, demonstrate the negative consequences of a lack of impartiality.

Conclusion:

Integrity and impartiality are not mutually exclusive; rather, they are complementary attributes that reinforce each other. A public servant with integrity is more likely to be impartial, and an impartial public servant is more likely to act with integrity. These two attributes are essential for building a strong, efficient, and trustworthy public administration that serves the interests of all citizens. Promoting these values through robust ethical codes, rigorous training programs, and effective oversight mechanisms is crucial for fostering good governance and ensuring a just and equitable society. By prioritizing integrity and impartiality, we can build a public service that truly reflects the values of fairness, accountability, and service to the people. This ultimately contributes to a more sustainable and just society, upholding the principles of constitutional democracy.

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