Swift Sanctions Must Apply in Sammy Gyamfi Cash Saga — CDD Fellow

A Fellow at the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Dr John Osae-Kwapong, has called for swift disciplinary action against the Acting CEO of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, following the circulation of a viral video showing him handing out bundles of cash to self-styled evangelist and former fetish priestess Patricia Oduro Koranteng, popularly known as Nana Agradaa.

Speaking on Joy News’ AM Show on Monday, May 12, Dr Osae-Kwapong stressed that President John Dramani Mahama must act decisively to uphold the credibility of the recently launched Code of Conduct for Public Officials.

“Public officials must always pass two tests — the legal test and the appearance test. They often fare well on the legal front. But what gets them into trouble is the appearance test,” he said. “Public servants must be mindful of how things look, because that’s where trust and goodwill are often lost.”

The controversial gesture has drawn sharp public criticism, with many describing it as ethically questionable and damaging to public confidence in government appointees. Critics argue that such acts directly undermine the new code of conduct, which is aimed at reinforcing integrity and accountability in public service.

Dr Osae-Kwapong welcomed initial steps taken by the presidency — including a summons from the chief of staff and an apology from Gyamfi — but emphasised the need for firm consequences.

“I’m glad the Chief of Staff has summoned him. I’m glad there’s an apology. And I’m glad we now have a code of conduct in place. But what matters now is the president’s response. He must act swiftly and apply the appropriate sanction to send a clear message that the code of conduct is not just symbolic — it’s a policy meant to be enforced,” he noted.

While ruling out dismissal, Dr Osae-Kwapong suggested a suspension would be an appropriate response, adding that the incident offers an opportunity to revisit the enforcement provisions within the code itself.

“At most, a suspension — that should suffice. But this is also an opportunity to revisit the final section of the code of conduct, especially regarding consequences for violations. That portion needs to be strengthened,” he advised.

Dr Osae-Kwapong also cautioned that while acts of generosity are not inherently problematic, public officials must always consider how their actions will be perceived.

“Nobody is against being generous. But as a public official, you must understand how your actions may be perceived. Even personal gestures can carry unintended consequences,” he said.

In a statement on Sunday, May 11, Sammy Gyamfi described the act as a private gesture of goodwill that was never intended for public attention. However, sources within the Jubilee House say the matter is being treated with urgency due to its political and reputational implications.