President John Dramani Mahama has issued a firm warning to all prospective government appointees under his administration, advising them against accepting gifts that may jeopardize their integrity while in office.
During a public funds policy launch, Mahama highlighted the importance of distinguishing between cultural appreciation and inappropriate influence in public service.
He stated, ‘Appointees are forbidden from accepting gifts or favors, particularly from individuals or organizations with vested interests in governmental decisions.’
He further emphasized that any gift received in the course of official duties valued at over GHS 20,000 must be disclosed.
Moreover, such gifts are to be returned upon exiting office unless the president specifically allows the official to keep them.
Addressing the common practice of distributing hampers during holiday seasons, Mahama instructed that no government funds, including internally generated funds (IGFs), should be allocated for this purpose.
‘The sole exception is for modest gifts to staff as recognition for outstanding performance or upon retirement,’ he remarked.
Nevertheless, he acknowledged an exception for state agencies whose operations include gifting as part of their corporate commercial strategy, stipulating that prior approval must be secured from the Office of the Chief of Staff for any planned expenditure on hampers or gifts.
Mahama’s position is part of a larger initiative aimed at promoting ethics, accountability, and transparency in public office, should he be re-elected in the forthcoming 2024 elections.
