President John Dramani Mahama has issued a stern directive to all future government appointees under his leadership, cautioning against accepting gifts that could compromise their integrity in office.
Speaking at a public funds policy launch, Mahama emphasized the need to draw a clear line between cultural appreciation and undue influence in public service.
“Appointees are prohibited from accepting gifts or favors, especially from individuals or companies with an interest in governmental decisions,” he said.
He stressed that any gift received in the line of official duty with an estimated value exceeding GHS 20,000 must be declared.
Additionally, such gifts must be surrendered upon leaving office unless the president expressly permits the official to retain them.
Touching on the widespread practice of distributing hampers during festive seasons, Mahama directed that no government funds, including internally generated funds (IGFs), should be used for such purposes.
“The only exception is modest gifts to staff as a reward for excellence or on retirement,” he noted.
However, he made a concession for state agencies whose operations involve gifting as part of their corporate commercial strategy.
In such cases, prior approval must be obtained from the Office of the Chief of Staff for any budgeted expenditure on hampers or gifts.
Mahama’s stance comes as part of a broader push for ethics, accountability, and transparency in public office, should he be elected president in the upcoming 2024 elections.