The Government of Ghana has reminded all Ministers of State that no major policy initiative or programme should be publicly announced without prior Cabinet approval.
The directive, issued in a Cabinet circular dated October 27, was signed by the Secretary to Cabinet, Professor Kwaku Danso-Boafo, and emphasizes the need to adhere strictly to constitutional and governance procedures.
According to the circular, government has observed a growing trend where some ministers “announce or cause to be announced” major programmes purportedly on behalf of government before such policies have been deliberated upon and approved by Cabinet.
The statement noted that such practices breach constitutional norms and the principle of collective responsibility, which requires that all major decisions reflect Cabinet consensus.
“No public policy, programme, or major initiative shall be considered a policy of government unless it has been duly submitted to, deliberated upon, and approved by Cabinet,” the circular stated.
It added that ministers are to channel all proposed policies, programmes, and legislative initiatives to the Cabinet Secretariat through the Chief Directors of their respective ministries for proper consideration.
The Cabinet Secretary explained that the directive seeks to promote policy coherence and ensure that all government communications align with the collective position of the administration.
“This directive is intended to safeguard policy consistency, uphold collective Cabinet responsibility, and ensure that all government actions reflect an approved and unified stance,” the circular further stated.
Ministers were also cautioned against implementing or publicly announcing any initiative that has not been reviewed and approved by Cabinet, as such pronouncements will not be recognized as official government policy.
“Ministers are therefore advised to refrain from announcing or implementing any policy that has not received Cabinet approval,” it warned.
The government believes the move will help maintain discipline in public communication, strengthen transparency, and prevent confusion over policies that have not undergone full Cabinet scrutiny.
Read Also: Ghana Hotels Association Urges Greater Investment in Tourism Sector
