In a statement today, its strategic communications unit said when Barisan Nasional (BN) was in power, it knew there were many opposition supporters among the civil servants, including members of the armed forces.

“However, BN never forced them to support the ruling party or victimised them because of their political leanings.

“The people – whether in the public service or otherwise – enjoy freedom of association and the right to support whoever they wish. That is fundamental to democracy.

“We only expect them to serve the government of the day with full loyalty and not allow politics to interfere in their work,” it said.

Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said last week that many civil servants were found to have actively campaigned for BN in the 14th general election, and questioned whether they could serve the PH government with loyalty.

He said the government needed to know where the loyalty of these civil servants lay as their attitude could affect the administration.

Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Aminuddin Harun last Sunday also said the new PH state government would identify government officers involved in campaigning for BN in the election for further action.

Yesterday, Mahathir said he knew many civil servants were being incited to serve certain political parties instead of remaining neutral.

“We don’t want to punish them but we may need to replace them as the government cannot accept their actions,” he added.

Umno said it viewed Mahathir’s statement seriously and hoped the PH government would treat the civil service fairly without resorting to revenge to ensure the country remained united, progressive and democratic.

“We are concerned such statements will be construed as a threat and oppression against the civil service,” it added.