President John Dramani Mahama has directed all ministers, deputy ministers and political appointees to stop accepting “Best-Performing” awards and other honours, as part of a new Code of Conduct aimed at restoring discipline and public trust.

The directive was issued on Monday, May 5, 2025 at Jubilee House during the launch of the enforceable Code of Conduct for government officials. The rules apply to the President, Vice-President, ministers, deputy ministers, presidential staffers, CEOs, board members, Council of State members and all other executive appointees.

Mahama said the awards ban is meant to curb vanity and avoid the perception that public officials are chasing personal accolades instead of delivering service. “This document is not a ceremonial one. It is a living and enforceable code that spells out what is expected of every individual appointed under this administration,” he stated. “There will be no sacred cows.”

The Code goes beyond awards. Appointees are barred from buying state assets like land, vehicles, buildings or shares, directly or through third parties. Breach attracts immediate dismissal and retrieval of assets. They must also declare all private business interests to avoid conflict of interest, and are forbidden from using influence to secure contracts or jobs for relatives.

Other key provisions include: a ban on using government funds for hampers or gifts except modest staff tokens approved by the Chief of Staff; mandatory declaration of gifts above GHS20,000; prior clearance from the Chief of Staff for all foreign travel; and a 14-day deadline to submit travel reports. Retroactive approvals will no longer be entertained.

To enforce compliance, Mahama announced a secure digital portal for citizens to anonymously report violations. Sanctions for breaches range from public reprimand and salary forfeiture to suspension and outright dismissal. Over 40 appointees who missed the March 31, 2025 asset declaration deadline were already sanctioned with four months’ salary forfeiture and warned of automatic dismissal if they failed to comply by May 7.

The President framed the move as part of his 120-day social contract with Ghanaians to bring back integrity, modesty and accountability in governance. “Public perception matters. If your actions give even the appearance of bias, you compromise the integrity of your office,” he added.

Source: Sahara Reporters.