Public Service: Resumption Under the Sign of Reform and Discontent

Nearly 90,000 civil servants are returning to work on Monday, January 5, amid significant ambitions for state reform and ongoing frustrations related to the Pay Research Bureau's report.

The government has embarked on a comprehensive reform initiative aimed at creating a citizen-centered, transparent, and efficient administration. A public reform strategy for 2025-2029 has been introduced, focusing on digitalization. It includes a national electronic document management system, a digital platform for the Scheme of Service, and a digital performance evaluation tool.

The inauguration in March 2025 of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute for Public Service and Innovation will enable training for up to 20,000 civil servants annually. This initiative aligns with international partnerships, particularly with China, focusing on training in artificial intelligence and administrative reform. However, as work resumes, the atmosphere remains mixed, especially after the December release of the Pay Research Bureau's report. It anticipates a salary adjustment, but with payments limited to 50% starting this month, with the remainder to be paid from 2027 due to budget constraints.

"There is a widespread sense of dissatisfaction in the public service following the PRB report. It has been suggested that civil servants are well-off, but upon reviewing the report, it is evident that the salary adjustment does not reflect this," confides Radhakrishna Sadien, a union negotiator for the State and Other Employees Federation. Nevertheless, he insists that civil servants will continue to fulfill their responsibilities as they always have.

Prakash Baluckram, president of the Government Services Employees Association, takes an even firmer stance: "The PRB must be paid in full," he asserts, assuring that his union will continue its mobilization. However, he clarifies that beyond this battle, civil servants remain dedicated to their duties. He also highlights that officers from various essential services met expectations during the festive period, allowing Mauritians to celebrate Christmas and New Year peacefully.

On his part, Narendranath Gopee from the Federation of Civil Service and Other Unions notes that the union has taken note of the Prime Minister's announcement regarding performance reform for civil servants. He states that "the performance of senior civil servants must now be scrutinized, as those at the lower levels follow their instructions." He also calls for the restoration of the connection between the administration of senior staff, the union, and civil servants. "Strong industrial relations are essential for improving productivity," emphasizes the union representative.

Amid ambitious structural reforms and ongoing salary tensions, the public service approaches 2026 at a decisive turning point, where the realization of promises will be closely monitored.