Ghana Implements Strict Controls on UNGA 80 Participation as Part of “Resetting Ghana” Initiative
The Office of the President has announced comprehensive new guidelines governing Ghana’s participation in the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, as part of President John Dramani Mahama’s broader “Resetting Ghana” reform agenda.
In a directive issued by the Chief of Staff following recent Cabinet deliberations on international event participation, the government has established strict protocols requiring prior written authorization for all official attendance at UNGA 80 and associated events.
The new framework mandates that no Minister, Deputy Minister, Civil or Public Servant, CEO or Managing Director of State-Owned Enterprises, Political Appointee, or government staff may attend any UNGA-related activities without express written approval from the Chief of Staff.
The directive encompasses all forms of participation, including:
– Main UNGA sessions and official proceedings
– Side meetings, panels, and forums
– Diplomatic receptions and networking events
– Bilateral engagements with international partners
– Third-party organized events and conferences
This applies regardless of whether invitations come directly from UN agencies, development partners, think tanks, NGOs, private sector entities, or through self-initiated participation, even when funded by external parties.
Under the new system, only the official Government delegation, as specifically cleared in writing by the Chief of Staff, will be authorized to travel and participate in UNGA 80 activities. All pending or previously accepted invitations have been suspended pending review and potential re-authorization.
Officials seeking to participate must submit written requests through their relevant supervising Minister to the Chief of Staff for consideration.
The government has emphasized that strict compliance is expected, with violations subject to sanctions under the Code of Conduct for Public Office Holders and the Civil and Public Service Codes of Conduct.
According to government spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu (MP), this measure is designed to ensure “a lean, coherent, and cost-effective national representation that aligns with the president’s ‘Resetting Ghana’ priorities.”
The directive reflects the Mahama administration’s commitment to fiscal discipline and strategic coordination in Ghana’s international engagements, ensuring that the country’s participation in global forums delivers maximum value for taxpayers while maintaining Ghana’s diplomatic presence on the world stage.
As Ghana prepares for UNGA 80, this new framework signals a more structured approach to international participation, emphasizing quality over quantity in official representation while maintaining the country’s active engagement in multilateral diplomacy.
The implementation of these guidelines demonstrates the government’s commitment to responsible governance and efficient use of public resources in international affairs.
