The move brings the total number of civil servants that have been recently dismissed to sum 4,324.
The Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reform has dismissed some 297 civil servants for wrongdoings related mainly to absenteeism. The dismissal which was announced by the Minister of Public Service and Administrative Reform, Joseph Lê, brings the total number of dismissed civil servants as part of the ongoing Physical Counting of Civil Servants, COPPE, operation to 4,324. The government’s unwavering commitment to enforcing discipline and accountability within its ranks is becoming increasingly evident. The dismissal of nearly 300 civil servants point up the seriousness with which it views absenteeism as a threat to the efficiency and effectiveness of public service delivery.
According to a statement released by the Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reform on February 12, 2025, the dismissals were carried out in strict adherence to existing regulations governing the state civil service. This process, based on Decree No. 94/199 of October 7, 1994, and its subsequent amendments, ensures that disciplinary actions are taken only after a thorough administrative review and in accordance with the law. The COPPE operation, initiated under the directives of President Paul Biya, aims to root out the problem of chronic absenteeism that has plagued the Cameroonian public service for years. This initiative, implemented under the authority of the Prime Minister, Head of Government, is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing efficiency, improving accountability, and ensuring that public resources are used effectively.
The government believes that by addressing the issue of absenteeism, it can create a more productive and responsive public service that is better equipped to meet the needs of the Cameroonian people. The move is also intended to send a strong message to all civil servants that absenteeism will not be tolerated and that those who fail to meet their obligations will face consequences. The dismissal of 297 civil servants is not merely a symbolic gesture. It represents a significant reduction in the public payroll and a reallocation of resources towards more productive areas. The government believes that this will ultimately lead to a more efficient and effective use of public funds, benefiting all citizens of Cameroon.
While the government’s actions have been praised by some as a necessary step towards improving public service delivery, others have raised concerns about the potential impact on the affected individuals and their families. However, the government maintains that its primary responsibility is to ensure that the public service operates effectively and that the interests of the nation as a whole are protected. The COPPE operation is expected to continue in the coming months, with further efforts planned to identify and address instances of absenteeism and other forms of misconduct within the public service. The government remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a culture of discipline, accountability, and excellence within its ranks, ensuring that the Cameroonian public service is a source of pride and a valuable asset for the nation.
