President John Dramani Mahama has directed a major restriction on Ghana’s participation in the upcoming 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, as part of his government’s new policy on international travel and official representation.
A statement signed by the Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, announced that all ministers, deputy ministers, political appointees, CEOs of state-owned enterprises, and civil and public servants must obtain express written approval from the Chief of Staff before accepting or attending any UNGA-related invitation.
“No Minister, Deputy Minister, Civil or Public Servant, CEO/MD of a State-Owned Enterprise, Political Appointee, or any staff of Government may accept any invitation to, or attend, UNGA 80 or any related side meetings, panels, receptions, bilateral engagements, or third-party events without the express, prior written approval of the Chief of Staff,” the directive stated.
It further noted that only the official government delegation cleared in writing will be authorized to represent Ghana. Pending or previously accepted invitations have also been suspended until further notice.
The presidency warned that any official who disregards the 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.”
Explaining the rationale behind the move, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu emphasized that the measure is to guarantee “a lean, coherent, and cost-effective national representation that aligns with the President’s Resetting Ghana agenda.”
The 80th UNGA is expected to draw global leaders, diplomats, and international organizations to New York later this year, with discussions expected to focus on global peace, security, climate change, and sustainable development.
