Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff, has formally cautioned Sammy Gyamfi, acting CEO of the Ghana Gold Board, in response to a recent contentious gift-giving episode.
Mr Gyamfi was shown in a viral video handing out dollar bills to social media star and church entrepreneur Patricia Asieduaa, often known as Mama Pat or Agradaa.
The official then apologised for what he admitted was a “unfortunate act of indiscretion,” and he was called by the Presidency.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the government spokesperson, said the Presidency has deemed the situation resolved following his apology.
The decision was made public during a news event on Wednesday, May 14.
“So in view of that, the Presidency does not believe that any further actions ought to be taken beyond the apology and the caution,” says Mr. Kwakye Ofosu.
According to the spokesperson, “the Chief of Staff cautioned him, having acknowledged the apology he made, he cautioned him and impressed upon him to take on board public sentiment and act in ways that reflect public expectation.”
The Minister stressed that, while certain behaviours may be acceptable in private, public officials must uphold higher standards.
“We must be sensitive to what Ghanaians expect from us,” according to him.
The Presidency has judged that no additional disciplinary action is required beyond the warning.
Regarding the feedback received since the incident last week, Mr Kwakye Ofosu stated, “We value feedback.”
“We are aware that Ghanaians want us to uphold high standards while performing our duties as public officials. We remain dedicated to meeting those high standards in order to provide the best governance possible to our people, who have suffered greatly in recent years as a result of weak governance.
Mr Gyamfi, who recently took over as interim CEO, has committed to keep his activities in line with public expectations.