Fear of being blacklisted blocks staff speaking up

Having spent two stints in the public sector — in a Ministry and a statutory board — in the past decade, I have serious doubts that the recent calls for "civil unrest" will lead to any substantial and fundamental changes in the character and work culture of those in it.
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The first reason can be found in Today's report ("Heeding the call for 'civil unrest' ", Oct 22). Almost none of the civil servants interviewed dared to give his or her full name.
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Can "guerrilla units" boasting subversive thinking ever be formed among those who even fear owning their views?
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Fear of articulating views that run counter to the top is based on the real worry of being blacklisted as an anti-organisation employee who does not share its goals, mission and vision.
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This could translate into an appraisal of poor work/attitude, zero performance bonuses, demotion and even termination of service.
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One of the best things about being in the private sector is that the bosses — at least those I've worked with — mean it when they say, "If the idea stinks, say so".
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As such, I had no reservations in speaking my mind on or against whatever the management had to say during staff meetings.
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In the public sector, however, being a follower is still very much the hallmark of a valued staffer.
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The bosses I'd worked with were averse to having their ideas criticised and torn apart, although they solicited staff feedback.
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Hence, if the public sector is ever to achieve the dynamism and innovativeness of the private sector, its top management must first rest easy when facing "civil unrest" among employees.
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So long as they frown, chastise and penalise the agent--provocateur employees for subversive thinking, no real and meaningful transformation will ever happen.