Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has issued a strict ultimatum to his appointees, mandating them to declare their assets by May 7 or face dismissal. This directive comes after several appointees failed to meet the initial deadline of March 31.
According to Ghana News Agency, the mandate aligns with the Public Office Holders (Declaration of Assets and Disqualification) Act, 1998 (Act 550), which requires public officials to disclose their assets and liabilities upon assuming office. This legal framework aims to curb corruption, uncover illicit enrichment, and address conflicts of interest.
President Mahama emphasized the importance of this directive while unveiling a new Code of Ethics and Conduct for his Ministers and appointees. The Code is designed to regulate their behavior, ensuring transparency and accountability within the government. The President described the Code of Ethics as more than just guidelines, but rather a declaration of intent to instill a new ethos in public service-one that prioritizes ethics, duty, and country over personal interests.
The President reiterated that he had originally set a deadline of March 31 for all appointees to declare their assets. However, recent updates from the Auditor General’s office revealed that some appointees did not comply. As a result, those who missed the deadline will forfeit three months of their salary to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, alongside an additional month’s salary already pledged to the Mahama Cares Trust Fund.
President Mahama stressed the significance of the asset declaration regime as a tool to combat corruption and abuse of office, urging strict adherence to these regulations. The President expressed confidence that compliance would restore public trust in the political elite and strengthen national democracy.
Mr. Julius Debrah, the Chief of Staff at the Presidency, also called on Ministers and appointees to adhere to the Code of Ethics and Conduct, reinforcing the President’s directive.
