MEDIA STATEMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
03 April 2026

SAAPAM welcomes key Public Administration legislation strengthening professionalisation

The South African Association of Public Administration and Management (SAAPAM) welcomes the promulgation of two significant pieces of legislation, namely the Public Management Amendment Act 07 of 2025 and the Public Service Amendment Act 09 of 2025. These legislative developments mark a critical step toward strengthening governance, accountability and professionalisation within the South African public administration.

The Public Management Amendment Act 07 of 2025 introduces several progressive reforms, including the devolution of administrative powers from executive authorities to Heads of Department. It further enhances the role of the Director-General in the Presidency in supporting the President, establishes mechanisms for the recovery of overpayments of remuneration and benefits and clarifies the role of the Public Service Commission in handling grievances. Additionally, the Act provides greater clarity regarding the responsibilities of the President and Premiers in the appointment and career management of Heads of Department.

Complementing this, the Public Service Amendment Act 09 of 2025 provides for the transfer and secondment of employees within the public service, strengthens provisions prohibiting public servants from conducting business with the state and formalises the National School of Government as a national department. The Act further addresses the removal of employment disparities across the public administration and introduces provisions relating to the determination of conditions of service with financial implications.

According to SAAPAM Executive Director, Professor John Molepo, these legislative reforms represent a transformative moment for public administration in South Africa. “We welcome these two important pieces of legislation as they redefine public administration in South Africa and deepen the realisation of professionalisation. They create an opportunity to bridge the gap between theory and practice, enabling practitioners to contribute to academia and academics to engage meaningfully with the public sector.”

SAAPAM also extends its appreciation to all stakeholders who played a fundamental role in ensuring the realisation of these Acts. This includes both former and current Directors-General of the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), the National School of Government (NSG), the Public Service Commission (PSC), and the broader governance and administration cluster.
In advancing its mandate, SAAPAM will embark on a nationwide roadshow engaging its members and stakeholders to unpack the implications of the new legislation. Furthermore, the Association will encourage scholars and practitioners to critically engage with and document these legislative developments in academic and professional discourse.

SAAPAM remains committed to promoting excellence, ethical leadership, and continuous professional development within the field of public administration.

Issued by:
South African Association of Public Administration and Management (SAAPAM)
nolutando@saapam.co.za
0672307084