Code of Conduct to prohibit appointees from accepting gifts, buying state assets launched

President John Dramani Mahama has introduced a comprehensive Code of Conduct for all political appointees under his administration, laying down stringent rules to promote ethical behavior, transparency, and accountability in public office.

The new Code, officially launched on Monday, May 5, 2025, at the Jubilee House, applies to a broad range of government officials—including ministers, deputy ministers, presidential staff, CEOs of state agencies, board members, and members of the Council of State. Notably, it also covers the President and Vice-President.

A central tenet of the policy is a ban on accepting personal gifts and acquiring government assets while in office. 

Speaking during the launch, President Mahama described the initiative as a vital element of his 120-day governance pledge to reintroduce discipline and restore public trust in state leadership.

The guidelines prohibit appointees from accepting gifts or favors from persons or businesses that may benefit from government decisions. While acknowledging Ghana’s cultural traditions around gift-giving, Mahama underscored that such practices must now be tempered with integrity.

He clarified that any gift received in an official capacity and valued above GH¢20,000 must be declared, and unless specifically approved by the President, such items must be handed over upon exiting office.

In addition, he stressed that no government funds, including those generated internally by agencies, should be used for gift hampers. The only permissible exceptions are modest tokens of appreciation for staff upon retirement or for exceptional performance—provided they are budgeted and approved by the Chief of Staff’s office.

The Code also takes aim at conflicts of interest and nepotism. Appointees are required to declare all personal business interests and are expressly forbidden from using their positions to benefit relatives or close associates.

Regarding official travel, the President mandated that all foreign trips—whether for government duties or private matters—must receive prior authorization from the Chief of Staff. Reports from such trips must be submitted within two weeks of return. He warned that retroactive approvals would no longer be accepted.

Further tightening the rules, the Code forbids political appointees from purchasing any state-owned assets—including land, vehicles, buildings, or shares—either directly or through intermediaries. Breaches of this rule, Mahama stated, would result in immediate dismissal.

To ensure enforcement, he announced the creation of a secure digital platform for citizens to anonymously report any infractions.

The President also reminded appointees of his previous directive requiring asset declaration by all who assumed office before March 31, 2025. Those who failed to comply would forfeit three months’ salary on top of the previously mandated one-month donation to the MahamaCares Trust Fund.

Calling the code firm but essential, Mahama urged all appointees to embrace it as a guide for ethical governance.