DA requests PSC probe into police sick leave abuse
The Democratic Alliance (DA) will ask the Public Service Commission (PSC) to do a full investigation into the widespread abuse of sick leave by officers of the SAPS (South African Police Service) across the country.
Serial absenteeism by police officers who abuse their basic right to sick leave is undermining efforts to combat and prevent crime. Not only that, but it is a slap in the face to the many brave and hard-working police officers who put their lives on the line to keep South Africans safe.
In terms of section 196 of the Constitution, the PSC has the power to investigate the personnel practices of the public service and propose measures to ensure effective and efficient performance.
It is becoming increasingly evident that the SAPS management has neither the ability nor the will to effectively deal with the abuse of sick leave and has instead opted for a three-day talk shop in Pretoria, starting today, to discuss "areas of concern".
An impartial and independent body like the PSC should therefore intervene to ensure that the basic values and principles governing public administration and service as outlined in our Constitution are complied with in the SAPS.