A 2024 flag bearer aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has criticised President Mahama’s decision to pardon the Acting Managing Director of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, over the dollar-gift controversy.
Agyapong has faulted the President for not sacking Mr. Gyamfi, stating that if he were President, he would have dismissed the GoldBod Acting MD outrightly.
Speaking at an Entrepreneurship and National Leadership event at the Central University on Thursday, May 15, 2024, Ken Agyapong, a former Member of Parliament for Assin Central, expressed disapproval of the President’s decision not to take further disciplinary action against Gyamfi.
He bemoaned the President’s decision to let Mr. Gyamfi stay, despite what he terms as “clear evidence” that, in his view, should have warranted action without needing an investigation.
Agyapong maintained that the President’s decision stemmed from favouritism, which has been a hindrance to the nation’s development.
“Nepotism, favoritism is what is killing this country, and there is no doubt about that. Recently in the news, we heard about Nana Agradaa and Sammy Gyamfi. If I were the president, I would have sacked Sammy Gyamfi right away. I would not have waited for even a second, because the evidence was clear. I didn’t need to go and conduct any investigation. This will serve as a deterrent,” he stated.
He continued that nepotism and favouritism have stifled development by placing unqualified persons in key positions, which he said must be addressed head-on.
“Young men and women complete their university education and go on ahead with their national service. Even with that one, you will have to pay to get a good company. If you didn’t know any politician, you could not do your national service at a proper place.
“All these are impeding progress, and because of nepotism, we end up employing square pegs in round holes. So, this is a canker, we need to solve or resolve,” he stated.
The vociferous former lawmaker’s comments come in the wake of the controversy surrounding the viral video in which Sammy Gyamfi was found gifting controversial fetish priestess-turned-evangelist, Nana Agradaa, some dollars.
The video sparked public backlash, with concerns raised about a possible violation of the Foreign Exchange Act and ethical standards expected of public officials.
