In a powerful display of unity and forward-thinking, a decisive majority of South Africa’s provinces have rallied behind a historic piece of legislation designed to build a more professional, efficient and future-fit public service.

During a National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Select Committee on Cooperative Governance and Public Administration hearing on the Public Service Amendment Bill, Public Administration Management Amendment Bill, and Department of Public Service and Administration Responses to negotiating mandates virtual meeting, six provinces - Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape and the economic heartland of Gauteng - have voted to support the transformative Public Service Amendment Bill.

This resounding endorsement signals a bold step towards modernising government operations and clarifying the crucial roles of elected officials and administrative professionals. The bill aims to create a clearer separation of powers, allowing political leaders to focus on big-picture strategy while empowering skilled heads of department to manage day-to-day operations effectively.

The three provinces not yet in support - KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Free State and the Western Cape - are now urged to review their stance. The Western Cape, for instance, has provisionally not supported the bill ‘in its current form’, proposing constructive amendments. With KZN and Free State also not supporting, it is hoped that all provinces will return to the drawing board to align with this crucial opportunity to reform and strengthen the public service system for the benefit of all South Africans.

The overwhelming support follows extensive public consultations, with provinces like Mpumalanga and the Northern Cape engaging deeply with stakeholders. Their valuable feedback led to insightful discussions on key clauses, with the DPSA providing thorough and agreeable responses that strengthened the bill’s framework. Limpopo’s support, coupled with its own recommendations, further illustrates the proactive and detail-oriented approach taken by our legislatures.

WHAT’S NEXT? THE ROAD TO VICTORY

This is not the end - it is the next exciting chapter! According to the latest parliamentary programme, the journey continues this month.

On Tuesday, 23 September 2025, the Select Committee will meet to tackle the ‘C-Link’ and debate proposed amendments from the Parliamentary Legal Service and the departments. This is where the Western Cape’s smart suggestions will be heard, making the final legislation stronger for everyone.

The process then charges forward towards the final mandate votes on 14 October, where the six provinces in support are expected to seal the deal on this historic reform.

This is how democracy is supposed to work - a strong majority drives progress, while thoughtful critics ensure the final product is built to last. The future of South Africa’s public service has never looked brighter.

Onwards!

Written by Fidelis Zvomuya,  New South Institute Journalist in Residence