IT is puzzling to note that Selangor PAS commissioner Hasan Ali has criticised Selcat (Select committee on competence, accountability and transparency) for putting civil servants in the line of questioning and damaging their self-esteem. He has suggested that the committee’s hearings be held behind closed doors to safeguard the image of civil servants.

It is surprising that he believes that the civil servants’ esteem would be damaged by answering questions on public accountability, but does not see that the rakyat’s right to equity could be damaged by unscrupulous and unaccountable civil servants. Civil servants are accountable to the rakyat and not politicians.

Why is this type of thinking prevalent among certain politicians? Through observation over the years of the work culture that has been disseminated to civil servants, the ingrained habit of face-saving rather than seeking the truth in critical situations has been the norm.

The evidence of this is clear when many cases involving top politicians have been covered up or the usual standard statement that investigation papers have been sent to the A-G chambers, or there is a need for further investigation.

To be a developed nation, we need civil servants of  distinguished character, who are able to seek and face the truth to bring about change, besides having a work culture that puts a priority on excellence. When dealing with public finances one has to be transparent, and face the rakyat instead of trying to hide behind closed doors. If one is not able to take the pressure that comes with accountability, the solution is to resign.

If Dr Hasan Ali is unable to distinguish between political expediency and professionalism it is time that he resigns from his post. Our political landscape needs a paradigm shift in terms of building the right culture for civil servants, as our nation moves on to be a developed nation. A no-nonsense approach in building accountability is vital.

Source: The Sun – September 29, 2009