Ras Mubarak cautions that Sammy Gyamfi’s dollar donation to Agradaa may threaten cedi stability
Former Member of Parliament for Kumbungu, Ras Mubarak, has strongly criticised National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, for presenting a dollar-denominated cash gift to controversial evangelist Patricia Asiedua, popularly known as Agradaa. Mubarak has cautioned that such actions, particularly by individuals in or close to public office, could undermine the strength of Ghana’s local currency—the cedi—and contribute to the worsening trend of dollarisation in the economy.
The criticism comes after a video circulated on social media showing Gyamfi handing over U.S. dollars to Agradaa in what appeared to be a public gesture of generosity. The footage quickly went viral, sparking outrage and concern among sections of the public and political class. Mubarak, taking to Facebook to air his concerns, described the move as “reckless” and “poorly judged,” especially at a time when the cedi has shown modest signs of appreciation.
He argued that public figures, especially those associated with governance and policymaking, have a duty to exhibit confidence in the national currency. According to him, gestures that elevate foreign currencies over the cedi send negative signals to the public and investors alike, damaging faith in Ghana’s economic resilience.
“For individuals linked to public office, it is imperative to uphold the country’s economic integrity,” Mubarak stated in his post. “Displaying large sums of foreign currency in public contradicts the government’s messaging on supporting the cedi and runs counter to efforts aimed at reducing dollarisation.”
Mubarak pointed out that several sectors in Ghana—including education, real estate, and parts of commerce—are already heavily dollarised, with many transactions denominated in foreign currency. He argued that when influential individuals choose to publicly give out dollars, it further entrenches the idea that the cedi is weak or unreliable, thereby eroding public trust and complicating monetary policy.
He further called on the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to ensure that tax obligations related to the transaction are fulfilled. “Under the law, gifts are taxable. The GRA must pursue the appropriate gift tax from Agradaa,” Mubarak asserted. He stressed that accountability should not be selective and that public figures must not be seen as above the law.
In response to the growing backlash, Sammy Gyamfi issued an apology, describing the incident as an “unfortunate error in judgment.” He clarified that the act was a personal gesture of kindness, not intended for public consumption or political gain. According to him, he had no intention of flaunting wealth or undermining the local currency.
“This was simply an act of private charity, consistent with my lifelong commitment to helping others,” Gyamfi said in a statement. “I truly believed the moment would remain private and was shocked to see it circulate online. I sincerely regret any discomfort it has caused, especially to members of my party and the wider public.”
Despite the apology, the incident has ignited a broader conversation on social media about the role of public figures in reinforcing economic stability. Economists and commentators have echoed Mubarak’s concerns, warning that the increasing use of foreign currencies in everyday transactions threatens the long-term health of the cedi. Some argue that such public displays by government-affiliated individuals risk contradicting official policy efforts to curb dollar reliance and stabilise the exchange rate.
As debate continues, the incident serves as a reminder of the symbolic and practical weight public actions carry—particularly those involving national currencies. For many observers, it is not simply about a dollar gift, but about the broader implications for economic governance and national pride.
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