Civil Service Bill caught between Parliament and ordinance
Summary
Uncertainty is mounting over the Federal Civil Service Bill as Parliament’s session nears its end, with the government weighing whether to pass it normally or bring it in through an ordinance. The controversial 55–30 retirement rule has drawn objections from the Public Service Commission and triggered concern over a possible mass exit of senior bureaucrats.
Key Points
- The Federal Civil Service Bill may be pushed through Parliament or introduced via ordinance as the current session ends within a week.
- The controversial 55–30 rule would force civil servants to retire at age 55 or after 30 years of service, and the Public Service Commission has objected to it.
- Senior officials worry the measure could abruptly remove many experienced bureaucrats and weaken the civil service, while government officials say it would create opportunities for younger staff.
- More than 13,000 employees could be affected, with the government estimating over Rs 25 billion in grants would be needed for retiring employees.
