Cuepacs appeals to Govt to delay sacking of non-political civil servants

KUALA LUMPUR: The Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs) has appealed to the Government to delay the termination of non-political civil servants.

Its president Datuk Azih Muda (pic) said that non-political contract workers whose contract have not ended should be extended another three to six months while those with permanent posts be moved to other agencies.

He said that those affected – the Execution Group 1 (Grade 1 to 18) such as drivers, Execution Group 2 (Grade 19 to 40) such as administrative and supporting staff, and Administration and Professional Group – were not political posts.

“We have received complaints that those affected were burdened with loan debts and other financial responsibilities. This is especially difficult as Hari Raya falls on June 15, while their contract ends June 16.

“We appeal to the Government to consider extending the contract service for those not holding political posts for another three to six months so that they can plan for their financial needs,” he said in a press conference Wednesday.

Recently, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad announced that the Government would abolish several government agencies which were deemed political or “non-essential”.

These included the National Civics Bureau (BTN), National Council of Professors and the Special Affairs Department (Jasa).

On May 16, Dr Mahathir said some 17,000 civil servants, who are political appointees, would be axed in a bid to reduce government spending.