Malik Basintale, the CEO of the Youth Employment Agency, has stepped up to defend Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), following the public outcry over a viral video showing Gyamfi handing an envelope, believed to contain U.S. dollars, to controversial figure Nana Agradaa.
Basintale has strongly criticized the moral panic surrounding the possession of foreign currency, questioning why the public is so quick to condemn when, according to him, such transactions are legal in Ghana. He pointed to the existence of licensed forex bureaus, regulated by the Bank of Ghana, as evidence that foreign currency dealings are entirely permissible under the country’s laws.
The Youth Employment Agency CEO further pressed the point that forex bureaus operate within the legal framework, being registered and monitored by the Bank of Ghana. This makes it unclear, he argues, how individuals can be penalized for possessing or transacting in foreign currency when institutions are legally authorized to handle such matters.
The video, which sparked heated discussions, showed Gyamfi allegedly handing an envelope containing dollars to Nana Agradaa. Following the uproar, Gyamfi issued an apology on social media, acknowledging the public’s concerns and any potential embarrassment caused to the NDC. However, the incident has ignited a broader debate on public accountability, transparency, and the ethical conduct of public officials.
While acknowledging the controversy, Basintale has called for a more measured perspective. He argues that isolated incidents should not overshadow the NDC’s overall commitment to transparency and integrity in governance. This situation, he suggests, is a lesson in the importance of perception in politics and the need for public figures to be cautious in their actions.
The fallout from this incident will ultimately hinge on how the NDC addresses it. If managed properly, the party could demonstrate its dedication to accountability and transparency. However, mishandling the situation could potentially erode the public’s trust further.
Source: NewsandVibes.com
