GII: Mahama’s Code of Conduct can’t be implemented across regimes

Mary Addah, the Executive Director of the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), has concerns about President John Mahama’s new Code of Conduct. She believes it cannot be enforced across different governments.

Addah spoke on Channel One TV on May 7. She called the initiative commendable but insufficient for tackling corruption in Ghana. The lack of legislative support for the Conduct of Public Officers Bill weakens its impact.

She noted that important issues like asset declaration and conflict of interest were overlooked. "The COPO Bill was a big missed opportunity for us," Addah stated.

While she values the Code as Mahama's personal commitment to ethical governance, its enforcement is limited. "It cannot be implemented across regimes," she explained.

The COPO Bill has been pending for years. Many in civil society see it as essential for establishing ethical standards and accountability for public officers beyond political promises.