Mary Awelana Addah, Executive Director of Transparency International Ghana, has voiced her concerns over the growing controversy surrounding a cash donation made by Sammy Gyamfi, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), to former fetish priestess-turned-evangelist, Nana Agradaa (Patricia Oduro Koranteng).
The controversy ignited after a video surfaced on social media showing Gyamfi presenting an undisclosed amount of money, reportedly in dollars, to Nana Agradaa at a public event.
This sparked public outcry, with many questioning the appropriateness of the donation, particularly given Nana Agradaa’s controversial past.
In response, Sammy Gyamfi issued a public apology, explaining that the donation was a personal act of kindness and was never meant to attract public attention.
Speaking on Channel One TV, Addah stressed the importance of stronger accountability for public officials, calling the incident a reminder of the need for greater transparency in governance.
“This situation presents an opportunity for the President to show genuine commitment by enacting the Code of Conduct for Public Officers,” Addah stated. “We have long advocated for the Conduct of Public Officers Bill to be passed to criminalize unethical behavior and set higher standards for those in public office.”
Addah pointed out that the current Code of Conduct lacks sufficient punitive measures, which she believes weakens its effectiveness in curbing unethical conduct.
She also called on the President to take decisive action, beyond symbolic gestures, by issuing a firm directive for public officials who have not yet declared their assets to do so. “A strong message from the President on asset declaration would demonstrate genuine commitment, not just for show,” she added.