The Patriotic Action Forum (PAF) has vehemently denounced the actions of Sammy Gyamfi, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, and demanded his immediate dismissal. A viral video depicting Gyamfi publicly showering Evangelist Patricia Asiedua, a controversial preacher formerly known as Nana Agradaa, with bundles of US dollars has sparked outrage. PAF criticizes Gyamfi’s behavior as not only reckless and offensive but also a blatant betrayal of the public trust placed in him as a government official. The incident has fueled accusations of hypocrisy, given Gyamfi’s past criticisms of other public figures for perceived extravagance. The Forum argues that this display of opulence is particularly egregious considering the current economic hardships faced by ordinary Ghanaians, who struggle with rising living costs and frequent power outages.
PAF’s condemnation extends beyond Gyamfi to encompass the entire administration of President John Dramani Mahama. They accuse the government of failing to address the nation’s economic woes and instead fostering a culture of “opulence and arrogance.” The “Reset” agenda, touted by Mahama as a solution to the country’s challenges, has been deemed a deceptive ploy, as the situation has reportedly worsened with increased power outages, escalating prices, and public sector job losses. The Forum contends that Gyamfi’s actions are emblematic of a broader pattern of irresponsible spending and disregard for the plight of ordinary citizens. They point to the alleged expenditure of $10,000 on fuel for a luxury vehicle to chauffeur Asiedua as further evidence of misplaced priorities and wasteful spending.
The public display of wealth, according to PAF, is a “grotesque abuse of office” and an insult to Ghanaians who are struggling to afford basic necessities. The contrast between Gyamfi’s lavish spending and the economic hardships faced by the average citizen has further fueled public anger and calls for accountability. The Forum highlights the irony of Gyamfi’s past criticisms of public figures like Cecilia Dapaah and Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, emphasizing the principle that “he who calls for equity must come with clean hands.” They argue that Gyamfi’s actions demonstrate a lack of integrity and expose his hypocrisy.
The PAF has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to President Mahama, demanding the dismissal or resignation of Sammy Gyamfi. They view this incident as a crucial test of the President’s commitment to ethical leadership and the recently launched Code of Conduct for government appointees. The Code emphasizes integrity, impartiality, and professionalism, and the Forum argues that failure to act decisively against Gyamfi would undermine its credibility. They warn that inaction would confirm suspicions that the “Reset” agenda is merely a pretext for rewarding party loyalists with taxpayer money. This incident is framed as a critical moment for Mahama to demonstrate his commitment to accountability and good governance.
The Forum stresses the importance of this incident as a litmus test for the government’s commitment to its own Code of Conduct. They argue that if President Mahama fails to take swift action, it will solidify the perception that the “Reset” agenda is nothing more than a smokescreen for rewarding political allies at the expense of the Ghanaian people. This perceived betrayal of public trust could have significant political ramifications, especially in the lead-up to the 2028 elections. The PAF’s ultimatum and threat of legal action underscore their determination to hold the government accountable for its actions and ensure that the Code of Conduct is not merely a symbolic gesture.
The PAF concludes its statement with a stark warning to the Mahama administration and a call to action for the citizens of Ghana. They characterize the government as corrupt, uncaring, and more interested in personal enrichment than serving the public good. They urge Ghanaians to remember this incident and hold the government accountable at the ballot box in the 2028 elections. The Forum frames the upcoming elections as an opportunity to reject the current administration’s alleged mismanagement and choose a government that prioritizes the needs of its citizens. This incident, according to the PAF, serves as a clear illustration of the government’s priorities and should inform voters’ choices in the future.
