Civil service reform must deliver real change

September 21, 2026

The country urgently needs meaningful reform of its civil service. The federal government’s proposed Rs11 billion reform package is therefore an important step, but its real value will depend on implementation. Reform cannot remain limited to new committees, training courses or changes in official structures. It must improve the performance of government departments and make civil servants more accountable to the public.

The proposed creation of 11 specialised professional cadres is a welcome move. Modern government requires expertise in technology, energy, climate, health, education, agriculture, law and other fields. A system based mainly on generalist officers cannot fully meet these changing demands. Recruitment should therefore be based on merit, relevant qualifications and professional ability.

The proposed National Executive Service also deserves careful attention. Opening senior positions to competition can bring new skills and experience into government. However, such appointments must be transparent. Clear eligibility criteria, open competition and measurable performance targets are necessary to prevent the system from becoming a tool for favouritism.

The same principle should apply to promotions. Civil servants should not receive career benefits simply because they have completed a certain number of years in service. Performance, integrity, leadership, professional skills and results should matter. Regular performance assessments can help, but these assessments must be fair, independent and based on clear evidence.

Accountability is equally important. A modern civil service should be answerable for delays, poor decisions, misuse of public resources and failure to deliver services. Accountability should not mean harassment of honest officers or political interference. It should mean clear responsibility, proper oversight and consequences for proven misconduct or persistent failure.

Digitisation and shorter recruitment processes can also reduce delays and improve transparency. Training should focus on practical skills needed to serve citizens rather than becoming a formal exercise for promotion.

The government has set an ambitious 120-day implementation target. The focus now should be on results. Pakistan does not need another reform package that remains on paper. It needs a professional, merit-based and accountable civil service that delivers efficient public services.

Meaningful reform must change the culture of government. Civil servants should have the authority and resources to work, but they must also be answerable for their performance. Only then can these reforms strengthen public trust and improve governance.