Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct

The rules cover, in plain language, those basic things that members must do. Where appropriate, there are Guidance Notes to help members interpret and apply the rules. The Guidance Notes do cover the main areas of professional activity in which members are likely to be involved. An act which seriously breaches one of the Guidance Notes will probably breach the Rule for Professional Conduct to which the Guidance Note applies.

THE CODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

Responsibility and duties

Members shall take personal responsibility for the reasonably foreseeable consequences of any actions or omissions arising from the discharge of their duties.

Performance and Duties

Members shall, to the best of his/ her ability:

  • Carry out the duties of the office efficiently, effectively and honestly;
  • Carry out the duties of the office in a transparent and accountable manner;
  • Keep accurate records and documents relating to the functions of the office.

Professionalism

Members shall:

  • Carry out the duties of his/her office in a manner that maintains public confidence in the integrity of the office;
  • Treat members of the public, staff and others with courtesy and respect;
  • Not discriminate against any person, except as is expressly provided by the law.

Financial Probity

Members shall:

  • Members shall not use his or her office to unlawfully or wrongfully enrich himself or herself or any other person;
  • Subject to Article 60(2)(a) of the Constitution, Members shall not accept a personal loan or benefit which may compromise him/her in carrying out his or her duties;

Members shall not:

  • Evade paying taxes
  • Neglect his/her financial obligations

Moral and ethical requirements

Members shall observe and maintain the following ethical and moral requirements:

  • Demonstrate honesty in the conduct of his or her public and private affairs;
  • Not to engage in activities that amount to abuse of office;
  • Accurately and honestly present information to the public;
  • Not engage in wrongful conduct in furtherance of personal benefit;
  • Not misuse public resources;
  • Not falsify any records

Gifts or benefits in Kind

Members shall not:

    1. Accept or solicit gifts, hospitality or other benefits from a person who;
      • Is under investigation;
      • Has a contractual relationship with the Ministry/Organisation;
      • Has any interest that is directly or indirectly connected with the his/her duties
  2.  Receive a gift which has the potential of compromising his or her integrity, objectivity or impartiality; or
  3. Accept any type of gift expressly prohibited under the Act.

Wrongful or unlawful acquisition of property

Members shall not

  • Use the office to wrongfully or unlawfully acquire or influence the acquisition of property.

Conflict of Interest

Members shall use

  • The best efforts to avoid being in a situation where his or her personal interests conflict or appear to conflict with his/her official duties.