The Government of Ghana has issued a directive restricting participation of government officials in the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, according to a statement from the Presidency Communications. The directive, issued by the Chief of Staff following a recent Cabinet pronouncement by President John Dramani Mahama, aims to ensure a “lean, coherent, and cost-effective national representation” aligning with the president’s ‘Resetting Ghana’ priorities.
Under the directive, no Minister, Deputy Minister, Civil or Public Servant, CEO/MD of a State-Owned Enterprise, Political Appointee, or any government staff may attend UNGA 80 or related events without the express, prior written approval of the Chief of Staff. This applies to invitations from the UN, its agencies, missions, partner organizations, development partners, think tanks, NGOs, private sector entities, third parties, or any self-initiated participation.
Only the official Government delegation cleared in writing by the Chief of Staff is authorized to travel and participate. Pending or previously accepted invitations are suspended unless re-authorized by the Chief of Staff. Requests for consideration must be submitted in writing through the relevant supervising Minister to the Chief of Staff.
Any official flouting this directive will face strict sanctions in accordance with the Code of Conduct for Public Office Holders and the Civil and Public Service Codes of Conduct. Strict compliance is expected.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu (MP), Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, signed the statement.
The directive is part of President Mahama’s ‘Resetting Ghana’ initiative, focusing on streamlined and effective government operations.