Abstract:
The existence of bureaucratic power cannot be overstated in the public sector.
It is also important to note that the irresponsible exercise of that power
arouses public concern. This article examines the responsibility of public
servants or those who serve the public through the power they exercise, and
assesses the ethical standards that they bring to their recommendations and conclusions.
The article begins by explaining the importance of administrative
responsibility and examines the interrelated issues of administrative accountability,
public service ethics, and the public interest. The paper further contends that
the “responsible” bureaucrat is commonly perceived as one who pursues such
issues as accountability, integrity, neutrality, efficiency, effectiveness, responsiveness,
representativeness, and equity in the procurement of good governance in
the public domain.