Government employees are prohibited from making unlawful disclosures of official material or from sharing papers on social media, according to a recent declaration. This warning was issued after census workers were seen acting in a way that did not comport themselves in accordance with the rules.
TikTokers and census enumerators have been submitting stuff that is false and deceptive, embarrassing the provincial and federal census authorities without need. Some officials have persisted in this activity in spite of explicit directives and a governing legal framework.
Given the delicate nature of the situation, provincial governments have been asked to give personnel the required instructions to refrain from these actions and to take harsh action against anyone caught uploading false media information. To save the digital census from further harm, immediate action is required.
Government officials’ usage of social media has long been a contentious issue. Although it has the potential to be an effective tool for engagement and communication, incorrect use can carry serious consequences. In the case of the digital census, the accuracy of the data could be jeopardised by unlawful publication of official information or dissemination of fake content, which would undermine public confidence in the methodology.
Holding public servants responsible for their activities, particularly how they use social media, is crucial for citizens. We should insist that they follow the rules of proper conduct and show sensitivity towards the material they handle. By doing this, we can contribute to ensuring that the digital census is carried out fairly, accurately, and transparently and that the public’s confidence in the government is upheld.
