Dr. Tanko Rashid Computer, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), has expressed his support for President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to resolve the controversy surrounding Sammy Gyamfi’s dollar gift incident.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Thursday, May 15, Dr. Rashid Computer praised the president’s move to end the debate, arguing that it was a necessary step to restore calm and prevent unnecessary political distractions.
“President Mahama has made a wise decision by putting this matter to rest. It allows the government to focus on more pressing national issues without being sidetracked by minor controversies,” he said.
The controversy began after a viral video surfaced showing Sammy Gyamfi, the acting CEO of the Ghana Gold Board, handing an undisclosed amount of U.S. dollars to evangelist Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, popularly known as Nana Agradaa.
The footage sparked public backlash, with some critics accusing Gyamfi of breaching the Foreign Exchange Act and the Code of Conduct for Public Officers. However, President Mahama announced on Wednesday, May 14, that no further disciplinary action would be taken, citing Gyamfi’s public apology as sufficient.
Dr. Rashid Computer, defending Gyamfi’s actions, described them as a simple act of kindness rather than a breach of ethics.
“Sammy Gyamfi’s actions were purely out of generosity. He is a cheerful giver, and his actions should not be blown out of proportion,” he stated.
He also noted that Gyamfi’s background might have influenced his charitable nature, suggesting that his humble upbringing likely shaped his desire to help those in need.
“Sometimes, when you see someone doing something like this, you have to consider where they come from. Sammy may not have come from a wealthy background, so he naturally wants to help others whenever he can,” Dr. Rashid Computer explained.
Despite ongoing debates over the appropriateness of Gyamfi’s actions, Dr. Rashid Computer maintained that the president’s decision to close the matter was the right one, as it prevents further political tension and allows the government to focus on governance.
“Let us thank the presidency for bringing an end to this matter. It is time to move on and focus on what really matters,” he added.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions among the public, with some welcoming the move as politically pragmatic, while others argue it sets a troubling precedent for accountability in public office.
