The recently released Code of Conduct for Political Appointees by President John Dramani Mahama is a comprehensive framework designed to improve moral leadership and accountability in government.
On May 5, 2025, the document was released at Jubilee House. It binds all ministries, deputies, chief executives, and presidential officials, including the president and vice president.
The ten main guidelines listed below are what appointees are now required to follow under this legally obligatory code:
1. Gifts above GH¢20,000 cannot be accepted without a declaration.
Gifts or favours from people or organisations having a stake in governmental decisions cannot be accepted by appointees. Gifts above GH¢20,000 must be reported and may only be kept with the president's written consent.
2. Tight prohibition on purchasing state property
Political appointees are prohibited from directly or indirectly acquiring government assets, including buildings, property, cars, and stock. Violators will be fired right away.
3. Declare assets or risk being fired.
Every appointee is required to disclose their assets. Those who started work before March 31, 2025, had until May 7 to comply or face termination or a three-month pay cut.
4. No gifts or hampers may be purchased using public funding.
Except for small gifts provided in recognition of staff excellence or retirement with prior permission, the Code forbids the use of public money, including internally produced cash, to buy hampers or other presents.
5. Identify any conflicts of interest
All commercial interests, particularly those related to government agencies, must be disclosed by appointees. They are not allowed to use their positions to help friends, family, or coworkers.
6. Prohibition of influence peddling and nepotism
It is illegal to use influence to get friends or family members contracts or positions. An examination is warranted even if prejudice seems to be present.
7. Requiring proper travel reports
The Chief of Staff must provide his or her prior consent for any international travel, whether official or not. After returning, appointmentees have 14 days to submit a report.
8. Penalties for code violations
Penalties for violators range from censure and suspension to termination. According to the President, "there will be no sacred cows."
9. A citizen online reporting mechanism
To ensure community monitoring, a digital platform is being developed that will enable residents to discreetly report potential violations.
10. Frequent training and ethical briefings
Appointees will be required to sign yearly statements certifying their adherence to the Code and will receive periodic ethics training.
The Code is "strict but necessary," according to President Mahama, who also noted that its adoption signifies a return to honesty and discipline in public service. He declared, "This is a government of shared responsibility." "Let's follow this path together with self-control, humility, and a strong sense of obligation to the Ghanaian people."
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