Overview of NSI Executive Director Ivor Chipkin’s Op-ed on Key Legislative Changes

The New South Institute brings to attention an op-ed by our Executive Director, Ivor Chipkin, regarding the Public Service Amendment Bill, which was recently passed by the National Assembly. In his piece, titled “History was made this week,” Chipkin offers a detailed examination of the bill’s potential effects on public administration in South Africa.

In the article, Chipkin outlines the historical development of political influences within government operations, from the apartheid era to recent times, and the need for current legislative changes. He highlights the bill’s role in reducing the discretionary power of politicians over public servant recruitment and departmental decision-making, suggesting that these reforms could lead to more professional public administration, less susceptible to political interference.

Chipkin also discusses the necessity of accompanying these legislative changes with the professionalization of public servants and the establishment of effective accountability measures to ensure governance remains balanced and effective.

The full text of Ivor Chipkin’s analysis is available for download in PDF format on our website and the websites of City Press, News24, and the Global Government Forum. This article is recommended for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of recent changes in public governance structures in South Africa.