The Office of the President has issued a directive regulating Ghana’s participation in the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and all related events in New York.

This follows a Cabinet pronouncement by President John Mahama on attendance at international engagements.

According to the directive signed by the Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu on Saturday, August 30, no minister, deputy minister, civil or public servant, CEO/MD of a state-owned enterprise, political appointee, or government staff may accept invitations to, or attend, UNGA 80 or any associated side meetings, panels, receptions, bilateral engagements, or third-party events without prior written approval from the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah.

The restrictions cover invitations issued directly by the UN, its agencies, missions, and partner organisations, as well as those from development partners, think tanks, NGOs, private sector entities, or any third party.

The statement further said self-initiated attendance or participation funded by external parties is also prohibited unless explicitly authorised.

It indicated that only the official government delegation, cleared in writing by the Chief of Staff, will be permitted to travel and participate.

Pending or previously accepted invitations are suspended until expressly re-authorised. Requests for consideration must be submitted in writing through the relevant supervising minister.

The directive also warns that any official who violates the order will face strict sanctions under the Code of Conduct for Public Office Holders and the Civil and Public Service Codes of Conduct.

It added that the measure is intended to ensure a lean, coherent, and cost-effective national representation that aligns with the president’s “Resetting Ghana” priorities. Authorities have called for strict compliance.