President John Mahama has tightened controls on Ghana’s participation in the upcoming 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, limiting attendance to only those officially cleared by the Presidency.
A directive signed by the Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on Saturday, August 30, stated that no minister, deputy minister, public servant, CEO of a state-owned enterprise, political appointee, or government staff member may attend UNGA 80 or any related side events without prior written approval from Chief of Staff Julius Debrah.
The restrictions apply to invitations from the UN, its agencies, diplomatic missions, development partners, NGOs, think tanks, private sector entities, and other third parties. The statement stressed that even externally funded, self-initiated participation is prohibited unless explicitly authorised.
According to the directive, only an official government delegation cleared in writing by the Chief of Staff will be allowed to travel. Pending or previously accepted invitations have been suspended and will only be reconsidered if resubmitted through the supervising minister.
The Presidency further warned that officials who breach 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 part of efforts to ensure a lean, coherent, and cost-effective delegation in line with President Mahama’s “Resetting Ghana” agenda.
Authorities have urged all government officials to ensure strict compliance.
