Ministers to keep right to appoint?

A bill due to be discussed by the cabinet on Wednesday, ostensibly aimed at limiting political influence in the appointment of high-ranking civil servants, is expected to be watered down, with ministers to retain the right to select a general secretary, Kathimerini understands.

Originally, the bill had foreseen that public servants including directors and managers be drawn from a national register listing civil servants’ qualifications. But the publication of the proposal angered several officials who maintained that the position of general secretary should be politically determined.

Government sources insisted that the aim of the bill is to curb political intervention though the anticipated amendment has fueled concerns that the state will continue to be influenced by the parties in government.