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AMMAN – With the need for "efficient" public service dominating the government and public’s discussions lately, a plan to work on the "mindset" of public sector employees as drivers for change has topped the reform agenda, a senior official said.
In his recent remarks, Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour has criticised the performance of some government agencies, accusing them of slackness and applying excessive red tape that cripples progress and scares off investors.
"We have in place the required modern legislative framework that is supposed to yield perfect performance, but the flaw is in practice, which is a human resources issue," Public Sector Development Minister Khleef Al Khawaldeh told The Jordan Times on Wednesday.
While blaming the lack of training and knowledge as one of the reasons behind the problem, which he, however, refused to call a phenomenon, he attributed the main causes to the reluctance in taking decisions, fearing accountability and accusations of corruption.
On the other hand, the work culture and lack of motivation also contribute to shaping the attitude of employees towards their work.
“Therefore, the focus in the next stage will be on the employees,” said the minister, who stressed that directors and supervisors are also responsible for the workers’ performances.
“They should identify who is doing well and should continue in his job and those whose contracts should not be renewed,” Khawaldeh said, adding that employees in supervisory positions “should also lead by example”.
While acknowledging that transforming the mentality of humans requires a longer time than needed to enact laws, the minister said that altering the culture of employees is a prerequisite for the envisioned change.
“Every employee should recognise that he or she is a servant of the public; laws cannot alone bring about change,” Khawaldeh highlighted.
The need for public sector reform has never been more important for Jordan, where a competitive investment climate is vital for its economic development.
“This takes us to the performance of committees and councils that grant permits for investors,” said the minister, who noted that their components, feasibility, mechanisms of work and outcomes will be under the spotlight of the ministry in the coming stage.
“Investment opportunities Jordan is eyeing requires going that extra mile,” he indicated.
Ensour has instructed ministers during the forum to create an “internal revolt” in the administration of public agencies, urging them and all public sector employees to “feel with the people” and to respond to their needs.
“True patriotism is not about gunpowder and going to war,” the premier said, stressing that a patriot is one who aptly performs their day-to-day duties and serves the country.