The former Director of the NPP’s Ashanti Regional communications team, Dr Kwasi Kyei, in a conversation on Kessben’s Maakye show, expressed his disapproval of the new code of Conduct launched by President Mahama.
He asserted that corruption has already infiltrated the nation, with the presidency itself at the center of these issues. “The President is known internationally for being corrupt. If he is accepting cars as gifts, he has no grounds to reprimand others for doing same. There was really no need for this new code of conduct”, he alleged.
On Monday, May 5th 2025, President Mahama launched a new code of conduct which spelled out guidelines for government appointees regarding public accountability, abuse of power and moral behaviour.
This ethical code binds the President and the Vice President along with all ministers, deputy ministers, presidential staff, chief executive officers, board members, members of the Council of State and all appointees working under the Executive arm of government.
The provisions in the code of conduct cover receiving gifts, nepotism, ministerial travels and buying of State assets.
On receiving gifts, the President stated that limits will be duly placed, even though it is culturally accepted.
“If a gift is received during an official engagement and its estimated value exceeds 20,000 Ghana cedis, it must be declared”, he said.
The only exception is when the gift is given to the political appointee prior to their retirement or in honor of their achievements. Even those must be approved by the Office of the Chief of Staff.
On nepotism and conflict of interest, the President stated that political appointees are not allowed to use their positions to secure contracts and appointments for their family members and close friends.
On ministerial travel, the code requires that the Chief of Staff gives his or her approval for any international travel, whether official or not. Appointees are also required to provide a report within 14 days of returning from official duty.
The code also bans appointees from purchasing any state property, including land, shares or buildings.
“If you attempt to do so and are found out, your appointment will be terminated”, the President warned.
Violating the code would attract sanctions ranging from public reprimands to suspensions and outright dismissal.
To make sure the code is enforced, the President announced plans to set up portals for citizens to anonymously report breaches.
He further described the code of conduct as strict but necessary, to restore the faith of Ghanaians in democracy.
This new development and its significance or lack thereof, has sparked debate among political circles, both those in government and those in opposition.
By: Julia Adu-Mensah
