WHY PEOPLE REFUSING TO SERVE ON STATE BOARDS

PEOPLE are refusing to serve on State Boards, President Christine Kangaloo has said.

But the Head of State did not explain why nationals are declining to become directors in the public sector.

President Kangaloo spoke about the refusal to serve during her address last week at the Divali Nagar.

She did not attempt to analyse the matter.

But many suitably qualified candidates are steering away from national duty over fears that their personal finances would become public and they would be at the mercy of criminals.

State directors are required to reveal their assets under the Integrity in Public Life Act.

While the information is expected to be classified and top secret, there are concerns about the breach of confidentiality.

Many middle-class people have been subject to extortions, with threats to the lives of family members.

The ongoing danger has sent a chill through the business community, especially small and medium-sized operators, who could only afford limited security protection.

Some qualified professionals and business people are also busy seeking to migrate as a result of the runaway crime spree and the Government’s inability to subdue the crisis.

Some have whittled down their businesses or professional services.

Another reason is the undermining of State institutions through the appointments of politically partisan people to head the organisations.

The Government has been accused of subverting important independent bodies.

Qualified people are also backing away from serving on State Boards as a form of protest against an administration that is seen as having failed to improve the quality of national life.

Several competent people are known to have turned down offers to serve, saying they prefer to focus on their personal endeavours.

The refusal by knowledgeable and experienced people to lend their service to State institutions has led to the appointment of even more political cronies.

It is also likely to impact the quality of decision-making.

Most State enterprises are debt-ridden and dependent upon taxpayer subsidies and transfers.

The appointment of eligible nationals as directors in the State sector is a long-held practise aimed at tapping accomplished citizens to serve their country.

The current participation is likely to currently be at low ebb.

 Certain appointments are made by the office of President and others by relevant line ministries.