President John Dramani Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has directed all government appointees to declare any gifts or hampers received in the line of duty that exceed a value of GH¢20,000.
According to President Mahama, this measure is essential for curbing corruption and maintaining public trust in government institutions.
He emphasised that high-value gifts could influence decision-making or be perceived as a form of bribery, and must therefore be openly disclosed.
Speaking at the launch of a new code of conduct for appointees on Monday, May 5, 2025, President Mahama reiterated that all government appointees are barred from engaging in acts that compromise ethical standards, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to integrity in governance.
“We all know our cultural fondness for gifts, but we must now draw a clear line between appreciation and influence. Appointees are prohibited from accepting gifts or favors, especially from companies or individuals with vested interests in government decisions. If a gift is received during an official engagement and its estimated value exceeds GH¢20,000, it must be declared. Upon leaving office, such gifts must be surrendered unless expressly permitted by the President to retain them,” he stated.
He further added, “As for hampers and gift items, no government funds, including internally generated funds, are to be used to purchase or distribute them. The only exception is modest gifts presented to staff in recognition of excellence or on retirement.”
This new policy is part of a broader set of guidelines aimed at promoting integrity among public officials and ensuring that government appointees conduct themselves with honesty and impartiality.
All gifts and hampers received by government appointees with an estimated value exceeding GHC20,000 must be declared.” – President John Dramani Mahama pic.twitter.com/MUbHNCVKV2
— GBC News (@thegbcghana) May 5, 2025
SP/MA
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