CHAPTER 2 ? Public Sector Management Reform Project (Implementation Support Mission, October 2002). ii. Findings of the CRM 69. This objective was discussed mainly in Accra, but also in other parts of the country. Among the issues of concern is the rampant bureaucratic centralisation and red-tape, for instance the procedures for securing a licence to start a business, which many stakeholders feel hampers effectiveness and efficiency in the public service. Many hope that the ongoing PSMRP will address some of the obstacles to the emergence of an effective and efficient public service in the country. 70. Stakeholders agree that sexual harassment and issues of gender equality and gender mainstreaming in the public service constitute major problems that should be addressed urgently. The government needs to show the political will to pursue the issues vigorously and determinedly in the public service, instead of paying lip service and pursuing a policy of tokenism. iii. Recommendations 71. The Panel recommends that the Government of Ghana: ? ? ? Develop an enforceable code of conduct, including a declaration of assets and liabilities for public officials, making provision for petition and vigilance by members of the public. Adopt measures, both financial, legal, moral and ethical, to enable the public service to deliver more effectively and efficiently. Develop a deliberate policy aimed at mainstreaming gender in the public service and clarifying the status of “gender desks”. Objective 6: Promote development and participation of civil society and the media i. Self-assessment 72. Civil society organisations and the media play a very important role in the promotion of good governance. Acting as vigilant watchdogs for human rights and the abuse of authority by those in power, they ensure accountability, transparency, 34

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