Advocacy 137. (1) Advocacy is an independent private legal profession and it shall be regulated by law. (2) Advocates shall observe professional ethics, and promote, protect and advance the human rights and fundamental freedoms of citizens. (3) Advocates shall serve to prevent injustice, defend the legal rights and interests of their clients, seek conciliation between adversaries and may render legal aid for the needy according to the law. PART NINE THE CIVIL SERVICE, INDEPENDENT INSTITUTIONS AND COMMISSIONS CHAPTER I THE CIVIL SERVICE Civil Service 138. (1) The National Government shall have a Civil Service consisting of all its employees who shall impartially carry out the functions assigned to them according to the law. (2) The law shall determine terms and conditions of service, duties and rights of employees of the Civil Service. (3) Civil servants, including the Undersecretaries, at all levels of government shall be recruited, appointed and promoted on the basis of educational qualifications, professional training, experience, competence, and merit. Basic Values and Guidelines for Civil Service 139. (1) The Civil Service shall be governed by, inter alia, the following values and principles: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) a high standard of professional ethics shall be promoted and maintained through focusing on merit and training; efficient, economic and effective use of resources shall be promoted; Civil Service shall be development oriented; services shall be provided to all persons impartially, fairly, equitably and without bias or discrimination on the basis of religion, ethnicity, region, gender, health status or physical disability; needs of the people shall be appropriately addressed, and the public shall be encouraged to participate in policymaking; Civil Service shall be accountable to the appropriate level of government; 46