Focus on enforcing ethics, not just Code of Conduct – CDD’s Kojo Asante

Dr. Kojo Pumpuni Asante is the Director of Advocacy and Policy Engagement at CDD-Ghana. He has urged President John Dramani Mahama to focus on public sector ethics. This call comes after Mahama launched the Code of Conduct on May 5, 2025. The Code outlines acceptable behavior for political appointees.

This initiative aims to promote transparency and discipline in public office. On May 6, Dr. Asante spoke on the Citi Breakfast Show. He described the Code as a positive step but called for deeper reforms. These reforms should address systemic ethical issues in the public sector.

He emphasized that many presidential actions should focus on public ethics. He noted that these ethics are not being enforced effectively. Dr. Asante referenced Article 284 of the Constitution. This article prevents public officials from conflicts of interest.

He believes this provision can help improve governance ethics. However, he stated that the current Code does not address these issues adequately. Additionally, he mentioned public sector financial management laws must be followed by officers.

Dr. Asante stressed that these laws need to be made public for accountability purposes. Appointees who breach the Code of Conduct will face strict sanctions, according to Mahama's announcement.