Mahama directs strict controls on Ghana’s participation in UNGA @ 80 in New York

President Mahama has directed strict controls on Ghana’s participation in UNGA 80, ordering that only an officially cleared government delegation will attend the Assembly in New York.

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that Ghana’s participation in the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80) will be subject to strict controls.

He made it clear that attendance will be restricted to a lean, officially cleared government delegation that has been approved in writing by the Chief of Staff.

“No Minister, Deputy Minister, Civil or Public Servant, CEO/MD of a State-Owned Enterprise, Political Appontees, or any staff of Government may accept any invitation to, or attend, UNGA 80 or any related side meetings, panels, receptions, bilateral engagements, or third-party events without the express, prior written approval of the Chief of Staff”, the statement issued by the Minister for Government Communications, Felix Ofosu Kwakye added.

Explaining the directive further, President Mahama said the strict controls on Ghana’s participation in UNGA 80 mean that no minister, deputy minister, political appointee, civil servant, or state agency head may travel to New York without clearance.

He stressed that previously accepted invitations are also suspended until they are re-approved by the Chief of Staff.

The directive added that the same controls apply not only to the Assembly itself but also to all side meetings, bilateral engagements, panels, receptions, and third-party events linked to UNGA 80. Even invitations from the UN, its agencies, development partners, NGOs, and private entities will require written authorization.

The Presidency further warned that officials who attempt to defy the order will face sanctions under the Code of Conduct for Public Office Holders and the Civil and Public Service Codes of Conduct. Requests must be routed formally through supervising ministers for consideration.

According to the statement, the measure is aimed at ensuring a lean, cost-effective, and disciplined presence at UNGA. It reflects President Mahama’s “Resetting Ghana” agenda, which prioritizes efficiency and coherence in international representation.

The statement, signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, concluded by stressing that strict compliance is expected from all government officials.