Code of Conduct for Appointees will restore transparency – Ablakwah

By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has lauded President John Dramani Mahama’s directive banning government appointees from purchasing state assets, describing it as a “bold, ethical, and necessary step” toward restoring public confidence in governance.

Speaking to the media, Mr. Ablakwa said the decision marks a critical turning point in Ghana’s democratic and accountability journey. “This bold action by President Mahama sends a strong signal to the Ghanaian people that we are serious about changing the culture of entitlement and impunity that has plagued our governance system,” Mr. Ablakwa stated. “It is a moral and strategic move to restore trust and preserve the integrity of public office.”

The Minister noted that while previous administrations had faced criticisms over the sale of government bungalows, lands, and vehicles to political officeholders and their affiliates, this new policy provides a clear ethical framework and helps ensure that public resources remain in public hands.

In addition to the executive directive, Mr. Ablakwa also revealed progress on a Private Member’s Bill he is sponsoring in Parliament. The proposed legislation, he explained, seeks to formally prohibit the sale of public assets to serving or recently exited government officials.

“The bill I’m working on will criminalize such acquisitions and make it impossible for any official to use their position to benefit from state property. It’s about protecting our national assets and closing the loopholes that have long undermined accountability,” he explained.

The bill, according to Mr. Ablakwa, is currently undergoing final drafting and stakeholder consultation, and will soon be laid before Parliament for debate. He expressed optimism that it would receive bipartisan support given the broad public consensus on the need for stronger ethical standards in public service.

“I believe this is not a partisan issue. It’s about the future of our democracy, and I’ve received positive signals from colleagues on both sides of the aisle,” he said.

The Mahama administration’s directive has been widely welcomed by civil society groups, anti-corruption campaigners, and segments of the public who have long advocated for reforms in asset disposal procedures. Mr. Ablakwa concluded by reiterating the government’s broader commitment to good governance, transparency, and the responsible management of national resources, stressing that the era of “state capture by privilege” must come to an end.