The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has issued a strong reminder to newly appointed public officials, members of the ninth Parliament, and other officeholders to uphold ethical standards by declaring their assets and familiarizing themselves with the Code of Conduct for Public Officers as mandated by the 1992 Constitution.
Urgent Call for Accountability
In a New Year’s message signed by CHRAJ Commissioner Joseph Whittal, the Commission emphasized the need for strict adherence to ethical governance.
Public officers are required to submit written declarations of their assets and liabilities to the Auditor-General within three months of assuming office or at the end of their tenure, as stipulated in Article 286(1) of the Constitution.
The statement also urged the government to prioritize the passage of the long-overdue Conduct of Public Officers Bill to strengthen accountability mechanisms.
Public Office: A Position of Trust
CHRAJ reminded officials that holding public office is a fiduciary duty, requiring the highest levels of integrity and a commitment to advancing the public interest.
The Commission cautioned against unethical practices, including conflicts of interest, abuse of power, and corruption, which undermine public trust.
Referring to Article 284 of the Constitution, CHRAJ explained that conflicts of interest occur when personal interests clash with official responsibilities.
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The Commission reiterated its exclusive mandate to investigate breaches of this code, citing the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling in Ablakwa & Another v. Attorney-General and Another as affirmation of its authority.
Focus on Administrative Justice
Administrative justice, CHRAJ highlighted, is central to good governance. Article 23 of the Constitution mandates administrative bodies and officials to act fairly, reasonably, and in compliance with the law.
This principle, recognized as a fundamental human right, ensures that decisions by administrative bodies are subject to accountability.
CHRAJ urged public institutions to uphold legality in their decisions and warned that failure to observe fair administrative practices could have legal consequences, as demonstrated in cases such as Awuni v. West African Examinations Council.
Ghana’s Democratic Milestone
The message also reflected on Ghana’s democratic progress, congratulating President John Dramani Mahama and Vice-President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang on their election. Notably, Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s appointment marks a historic milestone as Ghana’s first female Vice-President.
The Commission praised the peaceful conduct of the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections, which reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to democratic ideals.
It also extended congratulations to Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin on his re-election as Speaker of Parliament and all newly elected members of the ninth Parliament.
Call to Action for 2025
As Ghana enters the new year, CHRAJ emphasized the importance of addressing governance challenges and leveraging opportunities to strengthen nation-building efforts.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to promoting good governance, human rights, and the rule of law, urging all public officials to align their actions with constitutional and ethical mandates.
This call to action underscores the need for transparency, fairness, and integrity as the pillars of public service in Ghana.
