Gov’t appointees who violate code of conduct to be prosecuted

Dr. Dominic Ayine, the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, has made an important announcement. Government appointees who violate the 66-page code of conduct will face prosecution.

He stated that appointees will not only be dismissed for breaches. They will also be prosecuted if their actions warrant it. In an interview after President John Dramani Mahama launched the Code of Conduct, Dr. Ayine said, “If you breach the code, you get disciplined.”

He added that any serious consequences from a breach would also be addressed. “If criminal conduct flows from what you have done,” he explained, “the Attorney-General can take action.” This ensures that necessary criminal sanctions are imposed by the courts.

Dr. Ayine emphasized his commitment to investigate and prosecute any offending appointee. He believes it is unfair for past appointees to face prosecution while current ones do not. “The straight and narrow path defined by the President must be followed,” he stated.

President Mahama spoke at the launch ceremony at the Presidency. He described the Code as a bold declaration of public service standards. It serves as a living framework outlining expectations for all appointed individuals in this administration.

“This is a government of shared responsibility,” he said, “and there will be no sacred cows.”

Meanwhile, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah warned appointees against making excuses for misconduct. He stressed that compliance with the new Code of Conduct is mandatory and breaches will not be tolerated.