Domelevo questions GHC20,000 gift limit in new code of conduct for political appointees

Former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo has raised concerns about the new Code of Conduct for political appointees. He criticized the GHC20,000 gift threshold as excessive. He called for a review to improve accountability in public office.

Mr. Domelevo welcomed the Code as a positive step. He praised its clarity and focus on professionalism and ethics. However, he found the gift acceptance provision problematic.

He stated, “It is a good start. I see clarity in defining a minister's role.” He added, “The threshold is too high. GHC20,000 is more than 1,000 dollars.”

Drawing from his World Bank experience, Mr. Domelevo noted stricter international standards on gifts. “At the World Bank, the threshold was $50,” he explained. “If you receive a gift above that value, you surrender it.”

He emphasized that accepting gifts worth GHC20,000 is too high. His comments followed President John Dramani Mahama's launch of the new Code on May 5.

The Code allows political appointees to accept gifts valued up to GHC20,000. Gifts exceeding this amount must be declared to Cabinet and handed over to the state upon leaving office unless authorized by the President.

While many have welcomed the Code as necessary reform, Domelevo’s critique has sparked debate on appropriate limits for integrity in public office. He shared his views during an interview with Citi FM.