Mahama tightens noose on ministers 

President John Dramani Mahama has launched a Code of Conduct for all political appointees under his administration, spelling out new rules on ethical behaviour, public accountability and misuse of office.

The Code, launched at the Jubilee House on Monday, May 5, 2025 applies to all ministers, deputy ministers, presidential staffers, chief executive officers, board members, members of the Council of State and other appointees serving under the Executive. It also binds the President and the Vice-President.

A key provision in the new Code is the prohibition against appointees accepting gifts or buying state assets.

The President stressed that appointees must not accept gifts from individuals or institutions that have business dealings with the government.

He added that government funds, including internally generated funds (IGFs), must not be used to purchase hampers or gift items.

The only exception, according to Mr Mahama, would be modest gifts to staff in recognition of excellence or on retirement, and even those must be budgeted for and approved by the Office of the Chief of Staff.

The Code also addresses conflict of interest and nepotism.

Mr Mahama said appointees must declare all private business interests, especially those with links to government agencies. They are barred from using their influence to secure contracts or appointments for relatives or close associates.

“Public perception matters. If your actions give even the appearance of bias, you compromise the integrity of your office,” he stated.

On ministerial travel, Mr Mahama said all trips outside Ghana, whether official or unofficial, must receive prior clearance from the Chief of Staff. Appointees must also submit a report within 14 days after returning from any official assignment. He cautioned that retroactive approvals would no longer be entertained.

The Code goes further to bar political appointees from purchasing state assets of any kind—land, vehicles, buildings, or shares, either directly or through third parties.

Violations of the Code will attract sanctions, ranging from public reprimands and suspension to outright dismissal.

To support enforcement, Mr Mahama announced plans to set up a portal for citizens to confidentially report suspected breaches.

The President also referenced his earlier directive requiring all political appointees who took office before March 31, 2025, to declare their assets.

He said those who failed to meet the deadline would lose three months’ salary, in addition to the one-month salary already required as a donation to the MahamaCares Trust Fund.

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