Mazabuka DC Cracks Down on Late-Coming Civil Servants

In a bold and controversial move aimed at restoring discipline and accountability in the public sector, Mazabuka District Commissioner (DC) Oliver Mulomba this morning locked out several civil servants who arrived late for work at the Boma offices.

According to Mulomba, the action was part of a deliberate effort to enforce punctuality among government workers and ensure timely public service delivery.

Discipline Starts at 07:59

Speaking in an exclusive interview with MazFM News, Mulomba revealed that he personally closed the main gate at exactly 07:59 hours—just one minute before the official reporting time of 08:00 hours.

The DC added that his actions were not meant to embarrass anyone, but rather to send a strong message that government offices must not be treated casually.

Stranded and Frustrated

Some civil servants who arrived a few minutes after the gate was shut were visibly frustrated, as they were left stranded outside the Boma complex. For many, it was a wake-up call; for others, a sign of what’s to come under Mulomba’s no-nonsense approach to civil service conduct.

Witnesses say at least a dozen workers were affected by the impromptu gate closure, with some reportedly pleading with security personnel to let them in—to no avail.

A Culture Shift in the Making

Mulomba has vowed that this will not be a one-off event. He promised to continue conducting surprise checks and enforce stricter discipline among public servants, stressing that lateness is not only unprofessional but also a disservice to the citizens who depend on government institutions for basic services.

Public Reactions Mixed

The move has generated mixed reactions among residents and civil service observers. Some have applauded the DC for taking a firm stance on improving work ethic, calling it a step in the right direction.

However, others have criticized the approach, arguing that locking people out—even if they are only a minute or two late—could cause unnecessary embarrassment and affect morale.

A Broader Message

This action by the DC is reflective of a growing demand from both government and the public for a more efficient and professional civil service. As public scrutiny continues to rise, local authorities are under pressure to lead by example—and in Mulomba’s view, that starts with punctuality.

Whether this move will spark broader administrative reforms or draw pushback from the civil service union remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that Mazabuka’s DC has drawn a line in the sand—and it’s exactly one minute before 08:00.

Accountability begins with time. If civil servants can’t clock in on time, can they really be trusted to deliver the rest of their duties with excellence?