Excluded from using official positions for personal gain, mandatory disclosure of assets
government offices announced new times for Ramadan. PHOTO: FILE
ISLAMABAD:
The federal government has introduced sweeping revisions to civil service rules and has formally notified the Civil Service Rules of Conduct 2026 after approval by the Prime Minister, marking a significant overhaul of the administrative code that has been in place for decades.
According to official sources, the Establishment Division has changed the regulatory framework under the Civil Servants Act 1973 by issuing a Statutory Order (SRO) setting stricter standards of conduct for civil servants across the federal bureaucracy.
The new rules impose extensive restrictions aimed at preventing conflicts of interest and ensuring greater transparency in the public service. Officials have been barred from using their official positions for personal gain, while mandatory disclosure of assets has been made a central requirement under the updated system.
Under the revised framework, officers in grade 17 and above will be required to declare their assets on an annual basis. The initiative aims to strengthen financial accountability within the higher ranks of the civil administration.
The government has also imposed strict restrictions on officials’ use of social media, limiting their ability to publicly express views that could be seen as contrary to official policy or government positions.
In addition, the rules place strict controls on the receipt of gifts, engagement in secondary employment and participation in political activities. Officials are expressly prohibited from participating in political affairs, expressing political support or making statements that could be interpreted as opposition to state policy.
The SRO also prevents government employees from publishing writings, memoirs or other material that may contain sensitive or classified information or could potentially lead to the disclosure of official secrets. Authorities say the restriction is aimed at protecting confidential government information and maintaining institutional discipline.
Another key provision of the new code of conduct prohibits civil servants from having employment or association with private sector entities, including banks, corporations, private foundations, foundations or non-profit organizations, whether full-time or part-time during their tenure in public service.
Officials said the revised code is designed to strengthen the principle of neutrality in the public service and to ensure that public officials remain separate from political and commercial interests while in office.
With the implementation of the Code of Conduct of Civil Servants 2026, the previous framework established in 1964 has been formally repealed. However, the authorities have clarified that any actions or procedures initiated under the previous rules will continue to be valid and will be dealt with in accordance with existing legal provisions.
