President John Mahama has instituted a stringent Code of Conduct that expressly prohibits the use of government funds for purchasing hampers or gift items.
The new policy, which took immediate effect on Monday, May 5, 2025, forms a crucial part of the administration’s 120-Day Social Contract aimed at restoring fiscal discipline and ethical governance.
The comprehensive guidelines explicitly ban all government appointees including ministers, CEOs and heads of institutions from using public funds – whether from the national budget or internally generated funds – for gifts or hampers.
“The Code forbids the use of government funds—including internally generated funds—for hampers or gift items, except for modest staff gifts recognizing excellence or retirement,” he said.
The only exception permitted is for modest tokens to recognize outstanding staff performance or retirement benefits.
President Mahama delivered this warning during the policy launch, emphasizing that the Code of Conduct represents more than just symbolic gestures.
“This document is not ceremonial; it is a living and enforceable framework that will be strictly implemented,” he declared.
“We are drawing a clear line against the misuse of public resources for unnecessary expenditures.”
The new regulations also impose strict limitations on gift acceptance, barring government appointees from receiving any gifts or favors, particularly from individuals or organizations with business before the state.
This development comes as the Mahama administration intensifies efforts to demonstrate its commitment to accountable governance within the first 120 days of assuming office.
The President has vowed to lead by example in adhering to the new standards of ethical conduct in public service.
After the launch, the President handed over two vehicles gifted to him to the state’s pool.
The declaration was in line with his newly unveiled code of conduct for government appointees.
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