President John Dramani Mahama has announced a ban on first-class travel for government ministers as part of efforts to cut down on public expenditure and promote modest governance.
He made this declaration during the swearing-in of newly appointed ministers at the Jubilee House on Friday, emphasizing the need for humility and responsible use of state resources.
“I must however remind you of the same caution I sounded to your colleagues who have already taken office, that the hallmark of this government will be modesty and respect for the Ghanaian people. There will be no room for arrogance and pomposity in this government. The resources that you will be working with belong to the Ghanaian people who put us in office. Those resources are not to be wasted on opulence and extravagance,” President Mahama stated.
To reinforce this directive, the President has tasked the Chief of Staff with officially notifying all government appointees about the ban on non-essential travel. He stressed that any necessary travel must be cleared with the Office of the Chief of Staff and should be carried out in a modest manner, explicitly ruling out first-class flights.
“I’ve asked the Chief of Staff to write to all government appointees that I’ve imposed a ban on non-essential travel forthwith to cut down expenditure. Any travel that is deemed essential and necessary must be cleared first with the Office of the Chief of Staff, and such travels will have to be undertaken in modesty, no first class,” he added.
This move aligns with President Mahama’s commitment to responsible governance, ensuring that public funds are directed toward development rather than luxury. It also sends a strong message about accountability and fiscal discipline within his administration.
