President Mahama has launched a Code of Conduct for government officials, which prohibits appointees from buying state assets either directly or indirectly.
The Code of Conduct, 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.
Speaking at the event, President Mahama made clear that appointees who violate this code will be fired and the assets retrieved.
State assets have been defined to include lands, bungalows, hotels, cars, forests among others.
The initiative formed part of Mahama's 120-day social contract with Ghanaians to bring back discipline, integrity and accountability in governance.
“This document is not a ceremonial one,” Mahama said. “It is a living and enforceable code that spells out what is expected of every individual appointed under this administration. This is a government of shared responsibility, and there will be no sacred cows.”
“The Code forbids the use of government funds—including internally generated funds—for hampers or gift items, except for modest staff gifts recognizing excellence or retirement.”
Other pivotal provisions include mandatory declarations for gifts exceeding GHC20,000 and stringent measures against conflicts of interest, requiring appointees to disclose any personal interests that might interfere with their official duties, such as owning stakes in companies dealing with government.
President Mahama also warned against self-awarding government contracts to family or close associates, labeling such actions a “betrayal of public trust.” He stressed that breaches of the Code would result in severe sanctions, including reprimands, suspensions, or dismissals.
“If you are a dormant partner in any business engaging with any business even outside your ministry, you must disclose it in writing to this office,” he stated, emphasizing the need for full transparency and disclosure.