Prohibited from using official positions for personal gain, mandatory disclosure of assets
Government offices announced new Ramadan schedules. PHOTO: ARCHIVE
ISLAMABAD:
The federal government has introduced sweeping revisions to the rules governing public servants, formally notifying the Conduct of Public Servants Rules 2026 after the Prime Minister’s approval, marking a significant overhaul of the administrative code that has been in place for decades.
According to official sources, the Establishment Division has amended the regulatory framework under the Civil Servants Act, 1973, issuing a Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO) that sets stricter standards of conduct for government employees across the federal bureaucracy.
The new rules impose comprehensive restrictions aimed at preventing conflicts of interest and ensuring greater transparency in the public service. Public officials have been prohibited from using their official positions for personal gain, while mandatory asset disclosure has become a central requirement in the updated system.
Under the revised framework, officers of grade 17 and above will have to declare their assets annually. The measure aims to strengthen financial responsibility within the senior ranks of the civil administration.
The government has also introduced strict limitations on the use of social media by public officials, restricting their ability to publicly express opinions that could be considered contrary to official policy or government positions.
Additionally, the rules impose strict controls on accepting gifts, engaging in side jobs, and participating in political activities. Public officials are explicitly prohibited from participating in political affairs, expressing political support, or making statements that could be interpreted as opposition to state policies.
The SRO further prohibits government employees from publishing writings, memoirs or other material that may contain confidential or classified information or that could lead to the disclosure of official secrets. Officials say the restriction is intended to safeguard sensitive state information and maintain institutional discipline.
Another key provision of the new rules of conduct prohibits public officials from having employment or associations with private sector entities, including banks, companies, private trusts, foundations or nonprofit organizations, whether full-time or part-time during their tenure in government service.
Officials said the revised code is designed to reinforce the principle of neutrality in public administration and ensure that public officials remain separate from political and business interests while in office.
With the implementation of the Public Servants Conduct Rules, 2026, the previous framework established in 1964 has been formally repealed. However, the authorities clarified that any action or procedure initiated under the previous rules will remain valid and will be processed in accordance with current legal provisions.
