Deputy Minister for Constitutional and Legal Affairs, Ms Angellah Kairuki has emphasised that discipline is fundamental at the work place if productivity and efficiency are to be attained.

The deputy minister made the remark on Saturday during the opening of a two day meeting for the ministry's workers council held in Dar es Salaam.

"If a civil servant lacks discipline, it is clear that such a person retards the development of the organisation by misusing his or her position to undermine efficiency at the workplace," she said.

She quoted American author Jim Rohn to emphasise her point saying: "Discipline is the bridge between goals accomplishment and is a key element in achieving success. Without discipline goals each year will not be met. "There are some heads of department who are selfish and seek personal privileges," she warned.

She added that it was not strange to see in some institutions or departments; education opportunities, trips and even promotions subjected to favouritism based on nepotism, religion and even close friendships," she said.

"The abuse of power is growing into an active malignant in our nation right now. Some of us misuse public property without fear," she stressed. She further said, "Disputes and conflicts at the work place reduce efficiency and productivity. Conflicts amongst ministry workers are not just an indication of indiscipline, but an obstacle in carrying out day to day duties."

She said conflicts should be reported and resolved if employees want to maintain peace and stability in the workplace. The council will discuss various topics including pensions for public servants, handling of state secrets, managing HIV/ AIDS, reports on departmental information governance, human resource and plans of the ministry's budget for fiscal year 2012/2013.