Surprise Visit to Youth and Sports Ministry Sparks Fresh Call for Civil Service Discipline

In a move to tighten workplace discipline and boost punctuality across government offices, the Minister of Public Service, Administrative Reforms, Policy Coordination, and Delivery, Honourable Baboucarr Bouy, made an unannounced visit to the Ministry of Youth and Sports on Tuesday afternoon.

Joined by top officials—including Lamin F. Jawara (Permanent Secretary, PMO), Sheriff Jallow (PS for Reforms and Delivery), Essa Marong (Director of Performance Management), and Sulayman Ndow (Biometric Systems IT Officer)—the surprise visit aimed to assess staff attendance and time management habits.

The team toured offices, engaged with staff, and reviewed biometric records to get a real-time view of staff punctuality and workplace discipline—a key part of the government’s push for stronger accountability across public institutions.

“We came without notice to observe the reality on the ground,” said Minister Bouy. “Punctuality is not negotiable in the civil service it’s a core part of professionalism, and we are committed to enforcing it.” he said

He called on all ministries to lead by example: “Discipline and dedication must be part of our daily routine.”

Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, Minister of Youth and Sports, welcomed the delegation and praised his team’s commitment. “Unlike other institutions, mobility is not an issue for us—and lateness isn’t a problem here,” he noted. “Our staff consistently show they’re serious about their work.”

The visit reinforces government’s resolve to match policy with action and to ensure that discipline and accountability remain the foundation of effective service delivery.