Public servants have moral authority to uphold: MPs
& public
SINGAPORE: Members of the public and MPs say they
are shocked by news that several public servants are involved in an
on-going investigation into an online prostitution ring, including
an ex-police officer and ex-principal.
They said that public servants, especially those in
senior positions or who work closely with minors, have a moral
authority to uphold.
Hot on the heels of a recent corruption probe
involving two senior civil servants, public service officers are
again in the spotlight, this time, over suspected involvement with
an online prostitution ring.
Public reaction has been one of dismay, especially over news that
an ex-principal may be involved.
"I recognise the fact that this may be his personal life, so what
he does outside school is really something between him and his
family. But nevertheless, the fact is that he's leading a group of
teachers who are expected to be examples, good models for our
students. I think it'd be difficult for the teachers to look up to
him, if there are moral flaws in his character," said Lim Biow
Chuan, Government Parliamentary Committee Chair for
Education.
The former principal, who's said to be 39 years old and married,
resigned unexpectedly in December.
It's believed that teachers at the popular primary school were
informed of his resignation, but were not told the reason for his
departure.
It's understood that the new school principal told teachers not to
speak to media.
One teacher who works at the school in question, said the former
principal was very well liked by teachers and students, and most
were "crushed" when they found out about the news.
Described as "warm" and "friendly", the former principal was also
said to be a champion of student and teacher welfare, trying to
alleviate their workload as much as possible.
It's understood he also pushed for sports excellence at the school,
due to his love for sports.
Some Singaporeans Channel NewsAsia spoke with felt civil servants
have to maintain a high standard of conduct.
"I think it's morally not right and these public servants should be
sacked on the spot. They make lousy role models for children of our
generation," said one member of the public.
"Depends on what position (they're) holding. If they are in the
education ministry or are senior MPs or ministers, then I think
it's not appropriate," said another.
Mr Lim said he doesn't think the situation is a widespread issue.
But he noted that the Education Ministry may need to review its
selection process and see if there are ways to improve the
appointment of top leaders in schools.
Responding to queries from Channel NewsAsia, Government
Parliamentary Committee Chairman for Law and Home Affairs, Hri
Kumar, said: "Civil servants should be expected to uphold the
reputation and integrity of the civil service, and do nothing to
undermine public confidence."
And while he does not think the recruitment process of public
servants is flawed, he noted that "there must be a regular and
robust assessment process, and disciplinary issues which surface
are dealt with fairly and quickly".
In 2010, the Public Service Commission disciplined five officers
for inappropriate or immoral behaviour.
According to PSC's annual report for the past five years, immoral
or inappropriate behaviour was among the top three reasons for
disciplinary action.
Authorities have remained tight-lipped over how many public
servants are involved in the probe, or how they will be dealt
with.
They say that as investigations are on-going, it is not appropriate
to provide further details.
- CNA/cc
