Mahama tightens rules for Ghana’s 80th United Nations General Assembly attendance
The Office of the President has issued a directive regulating Ghana’s participation in the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and all related events scheduled for New York.
The move follows a Cabinet decision by President John Mahama aimed at streamlining attendance at international engagements.
According to the directive, signed by Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on Saturday, 30 August, no minister, deputy minister, civil or public servant, chief executive officer or managing director of a state-owned enterprise, political appointee or government staff may accept invitations to, or attend, UNGA 80 or any associated side meetings, panels, receptions, bilateral engagements or third-party events without prior written approval from the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah.
The restrictions apply to invitations issued directly by the UN, its agencies, missions and partner organisations, as well as those extended by development partners, think tanks, NGOs, private sector entities or any other body.
The statement further noted that self-initiated attendance or participation funded by external parties is strictly prohibited unless explicitly authorised.
Only the official government delegation, cleared in writing by the Chief of Staff, will be permitted to travel and participate.
It added that pending or previously accepted invitations are suspended until re-authorised. Requests for approval must be submitted in writing through the relevant supervising minister.
The directive warned that any official who flouts the order will face strict sanctions under the Code of Conduct for Public Office Holders and the Civil and Public Service Codes of Conduct.
Government explained that the measure is intended to ensure a lean, coherent and cost-effective national representation in line with the president’s “Resetting Ghana” priorities. Officials have been urged to ensure strict compliance.
