Which of the following is a civil/public servant?

Analyze the question: You are asked to identify which option is a civil (public) servant. This is different from a political office holder.

Explain the concept:

• Civil servants are permanent, career, non-partisan employees of the government. They are appointed on merit through the Civil Service Commission or similar bodies, and they stay in service regardless of which party is in power. They are expected to be politically neutral and to carry out government policies. Examples are permanent secretaries, directors, and clerks.
• Political office holders are elected or appointed on partisan grounds. Their tenure depends on elections or on the appointing authority, and they usually belong to a political party. Examples are ministers, legislators, and party officials.

Step-by-step solution:

• A. House majority leader: This is an elected legislator chosen by the majority party members to lead them in the House. It is a political position, so it is not a civil servant.
• B. Clerk of the House: The Clerk is the chief administrative officer of the legislative house. He or she advises on procedure, keeps records, and manages the House's administration. The post is non-partisan and permanent, which makes the Clerk a civil/public servant.
• C. Party whip: The whip is a party official in the legislature who ensures members attend and vote along party lines. It is a political position, so it is not a civil servant.
• D. Minister of education: A minister is a political appointee of the President, usually a party member, and holds office at the President's pleasure. It is not a civil servant. (The Permanent Secretary of the ministry would be the civil servant.)

Answer: The Clerk of the House is the only non-partisan, career administrative officer in the list, so the correct option is B.

Exam tip: Ask yourself: "Is this person elected or politically appointed, or hired for a career?" Words like leader, whip, minister, senator, and governor point to politics. Words like clerk, permanent secretary, director, and registrar point to the civil service.