Code of Conduct: GH¢20K gift threshold too high – Domelevo

Former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo has criticized the GHC20,000 gift threshold in the new Code of Conduct for political appointees. He calls it excessive and urges a review to ensure accountability in public office.

In an interview on Citi Eyewitness News on May 6, Domelevo acknowledged that the Code is a positive step. It aims to promote professionalism and ethics in public service. However, he believes some provisions, especially regarding gifts, need reconsideration.

Domelevo stated, “It is a good start. I see clarity in defining a minister's role.” He expressed happiness about the gift regulations but thinks the threshold is too high. “GHC20,000 is just too high; that’s over $1,000,” he said.

Drawing from his experience at the World Bank, he noted their acceptable threshold was much lower. “At the World Bank, it was $50. If you receive a gift above that value, you surrender it,” he explained. In contrast, he finds Ghana's limit of GHC20,000 excessive.

Domelevo's comments follow President John Dramani Mahama's launch of the new Code on May 5. The Code aims to promote ethical leadership and civility in governance. It allows ministers to keep gifts valued up to GHC20,000.

Gifts exceeding this amount must be declared to Cabinet during tenure and returned upon leaving office unless permission is granted by the President to keep them. According to Mahama, this directive will enhance transparency and integrity in public service.