Former Auditor-General Daniel Domelevo has issued a stark warning that Ghana may risk transforming crucial public ethics into a mere political popularity contest unless President John Mahama’s newly introduced Code of Conduct for appointees is established as enforceable law.
“The document has merit, and certain aspects are beneficial. However, I wish they would take those enhancements and incorporate them into the already prepared Code of Conduct bill, then pass it into law,” Domelevo stated during an appearance on PM Express. “It should not be a guideline that only applies during the Mahama administration.”
He cautioned that if the code remains a non-binding executive guideline, it could be easily disregarded by future administrations. “When a new leader assumes office, they may simply say, ‘I don’t recognize this; I’ll introduce my own.’ We don’t need that. Let’s establish it as the law of the land.”
Domelevo also sharply criticized the contentious gift policy outlined in the new code, which permits public officials to accept gifts valued up to ¢20,000. “That’s a definite no,” he asserted. “We seem to have an affinity for gifts. In public office, you are compensated for your work. You should rely on your salary, not on gifts.”
Reflecting on his experiences in international service, he shared, “During my time at the World Bank, the threshold was $50, not $100. I’m not sure if that has changed, but at that time, any gift exceeding $50 had to be surrendered.”
He echoed the sentiments of fellow panelist Dr. Kojo Pumpuni Asante, who also condemned the ¢20,000 limit. “Establishing such thresholds sends an inappropriate message. It opens doors for potential abuse and corruption, which is precisely what we do not need.”
Domelevo highlighted inconsistencies in the asset declaration section of the code as another area requiring legal refinement. “On page 30, it mentions jewelry with a minimum valuation of ¢5 million. That’s excessive! I’m not even sure if my house is worth ¢5 million,” he remarked incredulously. “This figure is too high and inconsistent with the law. Act 550 does not stipulate anything of the sort.”
He concluded with a resolute call to lawmakers and reform advocates to regard the code as more than a temporary political instrument, but rather as a foundational element of the constitution. “This country requires a consistent, enforceable ethical standard that applies irrespective of who is in power. That’s the only way we can foster integrity within our public service.”
