Mahama to Unveil Tough Code of Conduct for Government Appointees Today

President John Mahama is set to introduce a strict Code of Conduct for government appointees today, Monday, 5 May 2025, as part of his administration’s broader push for transparency and ethical governance.

The move, which falls under Mahama’s much-anticipated 120-day Social Contract commitments, is expected to usher in a new era of accountability and discipline across all levels of public service.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister in Charge of Government Communications, described the upcoming announcement as “a pivotal moment for the government’s reform agenda.”

In a Facebook post on Sunday, 4 May, he noted that the Code of Conduct was originally presented during the swearing-in ceremony for newly appointed ministers.

“This week begins with the unveiling of a strict Code of Conduct to regulate the activities of all appointees and ensure transparency and accountability in government,” Kwakye Ofosu wrote.

He added that the code will clearly outline what is expected of public officials, spelling out acceptable and unacceptable conduct in order to eliminate ambiguity.

“The guidelines will spell out the dos and don’ts of public service, eliminating ambiguity and reinforcing the administration’s commitment to integrity,” he said.

The Code of Conduct is expected to cover critical areas such as conflict of interest, misuse of public funds, abuse of office, gift acceptance, and ethical decision-making. It will also include mechanisms for enforcement and sanctions for violations.

The unveiling of this framework comes at a time when public demand for good governance and ethical leadership is growing. Observers say the initiative is a strong signal from the Mahama administration that it intends to take issues of accountability seriously.

This announcement also aligns with other reforms promised under the Social Contract, which includes pledges to streamline government spending, fight corruption, and improve service delivery in the public sector.

Civil society organisations and anti-corruption advocates have welcomed the move, calling it a step in the right direction.

However, many say the real test will lie in its implementation and whether the government will enforce the rules without fear or favour.

As the details of the Code of Conduct are expected to be made public later today, attention will now turn to how government appointees respond—and whether this will truly mark a turning point in Ghana’s political culture.