ACCRA, Ghana (BG) – In a move to curb government spending, Ghana’s President John Mahama has announced a ban on first-class travel for all government officials.

The decision, announced on Friday during the swearing-in ceremony for new ministers at Jubilee House, takes immediate effect.

Mahama emphasized that his administration is committed to modesty and accountability. “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,” he stated.

The new directive also prohibits non-essential travel, with essential trips requiring approval from the Chief of Staff.

Government officials will be restricted to economy or business class. Mahama stressed that state resources should not be wasted on luxury, especially as Ghanaians face economic hardships.

“The people of Ghana are enduring difficult times, occasioned by hardships, resulting from the economic mismanagement of the last eight years, and ours is to work to lift them out of this hole,” he said.

Public reactions to the policy have been mixed. Some citizens praised the initiative as a step toward responsible governance, while critics questioned its overall impact, arguing that few officials frequently travel first-class.

The ban aligns with broader fiscal discipline measures as Ghana battles high inflation and economic difficulties.

Analysts suggest that through this directive, the president aims to establish a standard for accountability, encouraging government officials to embrace a more modest lifestyle that reflects the country’s economic circumstances.