Orientation Needed for Public Officials — Kojo Addo on Sammy Gyamfi Dollar Saga

Executive Director of Social Watch Africa Policy, Kojo Addo, is calling for a mandatory orientation programme for all government appointees, insisting that President John Dramani Mahama’s recently launched Code of Conduct for Public Officials, though well-intentioned, is insufficient on its own.

His comments follow widespread public backlash over a viral video showing the Acting CEO of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, handing out an undisclosed amount of US dollars to controversial evangelist and former fetish priestess atricia Oduro Koranteng, popularly known as Nana Agradaa.

The footage, which appears to capture a personal encounter between Gyamfi and Agradaa, has sparked intense criticism and raised questions about the ethical judgementt of high-ranking state officials.

While the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has summoned Sammy Gyamfi to explain the circumstances surrounding the incident, critics argue that the controversy has already dealt a blow to the credibility of President Mahama’s newly introduced code, which emphasises modesty, integrity, accountability, and transparency in public office.

Speaking on Hot FM’s Morning Drive with Don Kwabena Prah Jnr Kojo Addo stressed that a more hands-on, practical approach is needed to help public servants internalise and apply the principles outlined in the code.

“The code is a good step, but it’s not enough. Orientation programmes must be institutionalised—not just for ministers, but for MMDCEs, parliamentarians, and all major appointees,” MrAddo said.

He pointed to past instances where public officials lacked a clear understanding of appropriate conduct, especially in relation to the optics and implications of their actions.

“It’s not always about breaking the law. Sometimes it’s about perception nd how a seemingly personal gesture can reflect poorly on an entire administration,” he added.

MrAddo believes that comprehensive onboarding and regular refresresherher training will help instila culture of accountability and ethical conduct across all levels of government.

“A one-time code won’t cut it. What we need is a system that actively educates and reminds public servants of their responsibilities nd the standards expected of them,” he noted.