In the past few days, a viral video featuring Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the ruling NDC and CEO of GoldBod, has stirred unease among party supporters and observers across the political landscape. The footage shows Sammy offering financial help to the ever-controversial Nana Agradaa, a figure who openly campaigned against the NDC in the 2024 elections.
While it’s no surprise that the Opposition NPP is gleefully calling for Sammy’s head, it is interesting, if not ironic, that even one of their own, Rev. Owusu-Bempah, has stepped forward to defend him. According to Bempah, Sammy’s gesture did not involve any illegality or corruption. This speaks volumes, especially when coming from the camp so eager to exploit any slip-up for political gain. Still, we must be honest: the NPP lacks the moral credibility to police the ethics of others, given the trail of controversies under their own watch.
The ‘Sins’ of Sammy
There’s no denying the fact that Sammy Gyamfi’s actions struck a nerve with NDC grassroots supporters. The frustration stems not just from the act itself, but from its symbolism. Here is a key figure in the current administration offering kindness, in dollars no less, to a woman many view as a political saboteur of their cause.
More frustrating is the timing and setting of the gesture. It was a moment that called for political sensitivity, yet Sammy seemed oblivious to the optics. A promising and dedicated comrade allowed himself to fall for the trap of a well-known attention seeker who thrives on public spectacle and controversy.
The anger from the NDC base is understandable. They’ve been patient, supporting President Mahama’s team as they work to clean up the disaster left behind by Akufo-Addo and his NPP government. So, to see one of their own inadvertently offering a lifeline to a known detractor felt like betrayal, even if unintended.
Why Sammy Shouldn’t Be Sacrificed Over This Dollar Gift Saga
Despite the poor optics, this situation doesn’t merit political execution. Sammy Gyamfi has shown maturity and remorse by swiftly issuing a public apology to both the NDC base and the Ghanaian people. In a political culture where egos often trump accountability, this is not a small feat.
Let’s also be clear: Sammy didn’t break any laws or violate the national constitution. At worst, he breached a growing expectation for stricter ethical standards among government officials. And that’s worth addressing, but not with a guillotine.
Sammy remains one of the NDC’s strongest assets. His communication skills are unmatched in the current political terrain. He’s a powerful voice for the party’s vision, and even the NPP respects and fears his sharp intellect and ability to sway public opinion. Sacrificing such a vital player over a one-time lapse in judgment would be shortsighted.
Recommendations Moving Forward
This is a teachable moment, not a political death sentence. The Presidency should respond swiftly and proportionately, with either strong caution or mild disciplinary action. That would serve as a warning to other appointees: timing, optics, and political awareness matter, especially in this era of hyper-scrutiny.
More importantly, the NDC must stay focused on its mission. The reset agenda led by President Mahama is too critical to be derailed by distractions. The mess left by the Akufo-Addo administration won’t clean itself, and it certainly won’t be cleaned by a party caught in self-inflicted turmoil.
Let’s correct young Sammy, not crucify him. He made a mistake, yes, but he’s shown character in owning up to it. Ghana needs level-headed leadership now more than ever, and throwing one of the NDC’s brightest stars to the wolves would be a misstep we can’t afford.
