Accra, Ghana//-Ghana’s acting CEO of the newly established Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi, is in hot water and has been summoned by the Presidency.
This follows a viral video that purported to show him giving cash, reportedly in US dollars, to evangelist Patricia Oduro Koranteng, also known as Nana Agradaa.
The video has sparked outrage and calls for an investigation into possible corruption and unethical behaviour.
The video showing what seems to be a private exchange between the public official and the contentious religious leader has sparked widespread public criticism and raised serious questions regarding the ethical conduct expected of public officeholders.
While the reason behind the cash transfer is still uncertain, the image of a senior government figure handing money to Nana Agradaa has intensified speculation and backlash from the public.
The footage, now widely shared across social media platforms, appears to show Mr Gyamfi presenting the cash to Nana Agradaa in what critics say could undermine President John Dramani Mahama’s recently launched Code of Conduct for Public Officials.
The Code, a cornerstone of the government’s broader anti-corruption agenda, stresses integrity, transparency, and accountability in public life.
The acting CEO, in a Facebook post on Sunday, 11 May, issued a public apology describing his action as an “unfortunate act of indiscretion.”
He said the gesture was meant to lend a helping hand to the needy, which regrettably became public.
According to local media, the summons by the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, is to clarify the circumstances surrounding the widely-criticised gift.
Minority Members of Parliament have criticised Gyamfi’s actions, “Sammy Gyamfi’s action not only a display of fiscal recklessness but also a betrayal of public trust and a slap in the face of millions of Ghanaians grappling with inflation and unbearable cost of living,” they said.
“This type of behaviour is unacceptable and undermines the credibility of the Gold Board. We demand transparency and accountability in all government institutions,” they added.
Social media users have also expressed their dismay over the alleged cash payment, with many calling for Gyamfi to resign from his position.
One user tweeted, “It is disappointing to see public officials engaging in such activities. We need leaders who prioritise the well-being of the country, not personal gains.”
Nevertheless, sources suggest that the Chief of Staff is addressing the situation with utmost urgency, recognising the significant political sensitivity and potential harm to reputations at stake. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
By Godwin Dzigbanu, African Eye Report
