Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has described the launch of a new Code of Conduct by President John Dramani Mahama as a commendable move, but says it is a short-term measure that lacks legal backing.
Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Kpebu noted that while the Code is a good step toward promoting accountability and ethical governance, it must be passed into law through Parliament to ensure its long-term impact.
“Mahama has done well, but he has more to do. The Code of Conduct he launched is not binding on future presidents. If he leaves office, the next president can simply ignore it,” Mr. Kpebu stated.
He said that although the document is meant to guide public officials in maintaining professionalism, curbing corruption, and promoting inclusivity, it must be institutionalised through legislation to ensure continuity and enforceability.
“He should tell us the next step. What is Mahama doing to ensure that the Code of Conduct becomes law as required by the IMF conditions?” the lawyer quizzed.
According to Mr. Kpebu, making the Code part of Ghana’s legal framework is essential, especially since it aligns with one of the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) conditions for promoting good governance.
“The decision is good, but let’s finish everything in Parliament. That’s what the IMF wants. It shouldn’t end at just launching a document,” he insisted.
He recalled that President Akufo-Addo also promised a “world-class” Code of Conduct, which he failed to deliver because he wanted to pass it through Parliament but never completed the process.
“Mahama’s approach is not the way to go. It’s short term. He should use the right channel so that the Code doesn’t just remain a document that any incoming president can discard,” Mr. Kpebu added.
In his view, the real progress will only be made when the Code of Conduct becomes law.
“Beyond the launch, we need the parliamentary version. That’s the only way it becomes binding.”
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