Former President John Dramani Mahama has stepped into the spotlight following a public uproar over a viral video involving Sammy Gyamfi, Acting CEO of the Ghana Gold Board.
The clip, which shows Gyamfi handing out what appears to be U.S. dollar notes to Nana Agradaa, a self-proclaimed evangelist with a controversial past, has triggered intense public backlash.
As economic pressures continue to mount on ordinary Ghanaians, many have condemned the act as highly insensitive and inappropriate, particularly coming from a top government official. The gesture was widely seen as a show of extravagance at a time when many are struggling to make ends meet.
Reacting to the controversy, Mahama’s spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, stated that the former president is taking the matter seriously and views it as an issue of public accountability. Kwakye Ofosu reaffirmed the Mahama administration’s firm stance on ethical behavior and the preservation of public trust—principles they insist all appointees must uphold.
In response to the backlash, Gyamfi issued an apology, describing the gesture as a personal act of generosity that was never meant to go public. Despite this, skepticism among Ghanaians remains high, with many demanding that officials maintain transparency and ethical conduct not only in office but in their personal lives as well.
The incident has since ignited broader calls for stronger oversight in governance and more stringent standards for public officials. In a swift move, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has summoned Gyamfi to the Jubilee House to discuss the matter formally. The outcome of that meeting could determine whether Gyamfi retains his post or faces disciplinary action.
This situation places the Mahama administration under the microscope, with many watching to see if the leadership will follow through on its promise of integrity and accountability. At a time when public trust is fragile, how the presidency addresses this controversy could have lasting implications for its image and future decisions.