Politics of Tuesday, 13 May 2025
Source: www.ghanaweb.com
The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has announced plans to investigate Sammy Gyamfi's recent gift of US dollars to popular former fetish priestess who now professes Christianity, Nana Agradaa.
This announcement comes amid public outcries following a viral video that showed Sammy Gyamfi, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), gifting dollar notes to Agradaa.
But according to Kwakye Ofosu, as reported by 3news.com, the government has committed to addressing the concerns raised with "utmost seriousness."
Kwakye Ofosu expressed this assurance during an interview, following widespread criticisms of the gesture, with many questioning its appropriateness, given the current economic challenges in the country.
On Sunday, May 11, Sammy Gyamfi apologised, describing the cash handover as a private act of kindness intended for personal use and not for public attention.
In response, Julius Debrah, the Chief of Staff, summoned Gyamfi to the Presidency to provide a detailed explanation of the incident.
The purpose of this investigation, according to Felix Kwakye Ofosu is to determine whether the transaction complies with Ghana's currency regulations.
Minister Kwakye Ofosu emphasised that this action by the Chief of Staff highlights the government's intent to thoroughly address the issue.
"Generally, as a government, we respect the sentiments of Ghanaians," Kwakye Ofosu stated.
He noted that various opinions have been expressed since the video was aired, which contributed to the Chief of Staff's decision to take action.
"We know that since the airing of the video, various sentiments have been expressed. It is part of the reasons the Chief of Staff took the step he has taken today [May 12]," he added.
The government is expected to collaborate with relevant agencies to probe the transaction thoroughly.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu underscored the administration’s commitment to higher governance standards, saying, "We are a government that is committed to governing the country differently and holding ourselves to high standards.
So, we take on board the concerns that the public has raised. This shows that people expect a much departure from the free fall that happened under the NPP administration."
He also stated that President John Dramani Mahama would be fully briefed upon his return to Ghana, after which any necessary further action will be determined.
The incident has sparked public debate, with many calling for clarity.
In the meantime, the Minority in Parliament has called for Sammy Gyamfi's suspension pending the inquiry into the incident.
NAD/AE
Watch as Agradaa promises to share church money with Sammy Gyamfi if he’s fired because of her