The Presidency has rolled out a new directive to regulate Ghana’s participation in the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, with a focus on ensuring a lean, coordinated, and cost-effective national delegation.

The instruction, signed by the Chief of Staff and relayed through Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu (MP), stems from President John Dramani Mahama’s recent Cabinet decision on government travel and international engagements.

Under the directive, no minister, deputy minister, head of a state-owned enterprise, public servant, political appointee, or government staff member is permitted to attend UNGA 80 or any related side events—such as panels, receptions, or bilateral meetings—without prior written clearance from the Chief of Staff.

The ban also covers invitations from the United Nations, its agencies, development partners, civil society, the private sector, and other third parties.

All previously accepted invitations are suspended until they are resubmitted and expressly re-authorised in writing.

Requests for clearance must be channelled through the respective supervising minister before reaching the Chief of Staff for consideration.

The directive warns that any breaches will be met with strict sanctions under the Code of Conduct for Public Office Holders as well as Civil and Public Service regulations.

The government explained that the measure forms part of President Mahama’s “Resetting Ghana” agenda, which emphasises cutting costs and avoiding duplication in international representation.

“Strict compliance is expected,” the statement concluded.