Former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo has expressed concerns about the GHC20,000 gift threshold established in the newly launched Code of Conduct for political appointees. He suggested that this figure may be too high and called for a thoughtful review to enhance accountability in public office.
In a recent interview with Citi FM, Mr. Domelevo acknowledged the Code as a positive initiative aimed at promoting professionalism and ethical standards in public service. However, he emphasized the importance of revisiting certain provisions, particularly those related to gifts.
“It is a good start. I see a lot of clarity in defining the role of a minister. I am very happy to read about the receiving of gifts, except that the threshold, I think, is too high. GHC 20,000 is just too high, and that is more than 1,000 dollars,” he stated.
Domelevo referenced his experience at the World Bank, where the acceptable threshold was significantly lower, and suggested that the new projected threshold should be re-examined.
“At the World Bank, where I was, the threshold was 50 dollars. If you receive a gift above the value of $50, you surrender it; you do not take it home. But in this case, it is about 1,000 dollars, and 20,000 Ghana cedis to be specific. I think it is too high,” he argued.
Domelevo’s comments follow the introduction of a new Code of Conduct for political appointees announced by President John Dramani Mahama on May 5. The Code aims to promote ethical leadership and civility in governance.
It includes a provision that permits ministers and other appointees to accept gifts valued at up to GHC20,000. Gifts exceeding this amount must be declared to the Cabinet during the appointee’s tenure and must be relinquished upon leaving office, unless the President grants explicit permission to retain them.