By Nadia Ntiamoah
Former Member of Parliament for Kumbungu, Ras Mubarak, has raised serious concerns over recent actions by NDC Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, questioning the political figure’s judgment following reports that he gifted foreign currency to evangelist Patricia Asiedu, popularly known as ‘Mama Pat’ or ‘Nana Agradaa.’
In a statement assessing the implications of the gesture, Mubarak argued that public office holders and prominent political figures must be seen to uphold national economic interests, particularly in times when the country is battling confidence issues around its local currency, the cedi.
“For government office holders, it’s expected that they prioritize national interests and demonstrate confidence in our country’s economy and currency,” Mubarak noted, expressing disapproval of the decision to give away foreign currency—regardless of whether it was personally acquired or not.
He emphasized that such gestures, though seemingly benign, can send the wrong signals to the public and potentially undercut efforts to stabilize the cedi.
“Dashing foreign currency, even if well-earned, could undermine the local currency and economy,” Mubarak stated, pointing out that the cedi has recently shown signs of recovery.
The former lawmaker referenced broader economic challenges the country faces, including the persistent trend of businesses—such as schools, hotels, and real estate companies—charging clients in US dollars.
He warned that actions like Gyamfi’s could further legitimize this behavior and contradict government regulations aimed at promoting the use of the cedi in local transactions.
“Sammy Gyamfi’s error of judgement could be perceived as a lack of confidence in the cedi. It contradicts government regulations,” he cautioned.
“Such action could lead to a negative impact on the cedi’s value or stability.”
Turning his attention to the recipient of the gesture, Ras Mubarak did not spare Agradaa from scrutiny either.
He insisted that her receipt of the foreign currency gift attracts legal obligations under Ghana’s tax laws. “On Mama Pat ‘Agradaa,’ she has to pay gift tax. It’s the law,” he asserted, calling on the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to take necessary action.
“The Ghana Revenue Authority must go after Agradaa for the tax component on the gift,” Mubarak added, reiterating the principle that all citizens—regardless of status—are bound by the country’s tax laws.
Ras Mubarak’s intervention adds to growing debates around financial accountability, public perception, and the enforcement of fiscal laws in Ghana, especially involving prominent individuals.
