Minority want Mahama to sanction Sammy Gyamfi

Dr. Kabiru Tia-Mahama, the MP for Walewale, addressed the press recently. He is also a member of the Finance Committee in Parliament. Dr. Mahama called for an investigation into U.S. dollars distributed by Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the ruling NDC.

He described this situation as disturbing and insulting to Ghanaians. Many are suffering from economic hardships due to inflation and high living costs. At a news conference, he labeled Mr. Gyamfi's actions as a "naked betrayal" of public trust.

Dr. Mahama criticized Gyamfi for distributing large sums of foreign currency during an economic crisis. He questioned where Gyamfi obtained these dollars and demanded proof of legitimacy for such transactions.

A viral video showed Mr. Gyamfi handing out dollar bills at an event with Patricia Oduro Koranteng, known as Nana Agradaa. This footage has sparked public outrage and raised questions about its legality.

Dr. Mahama noted that this behavior contradicts the new Code of Conduct for political appointees launched by President John Dramani Mahama. The code emphasizes placing national interest above personal gain and maintaining integrity.

He stated that what occurred over the weekend was a display of opulence and insensitivity towards ordinary Ghanaians' struggles. Dr. Mahama pointed out that Gyamfi's actions violated several laws, including the Foreign Exchange Act.

He highlighted that Mr. Gyamfi likely did not have authorization from the Bank of Ghana for foreign exchange transactions. This raises concerns about how he possessed such a large amount of U.S. dollars.

Dr. Mahama criticized the government's silence on this issue, suggesting complicity from officials in power. He expressed concern over the lack of response from the presidency and relevant ministries since the scandal broke.

He called for Mr. Gyamfi's immediate removal as acting CEO of the Ghana Gold Board due to his conduct being an affront to integrity expected in that role.

Additionally, Dr. Mahama urged the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to investigate whether taxes were paid on a $10,000 gift given to Nana Agradaa at the event.

He reminded that income tax laws require individuals receiving gifts to declare them and pay taxes accordingly within 21 days.

Dr. Mahama warned against assuming that cedi stability is permanent, citing ongoing economic vulnerabilities in Ghana’s economy.

He explained that current cedi performance is artificial due to unpaid energy sector debts owed to independent power producers.

Once these debts are settled, it could put pressure back on the cedi's value, he cautioned.

Lastly, he noted that Ghana’s gold reserves have barely improved under current leadership compared to when they left office previously.