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The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), Dr. Rashid Tanko Computer, has publicly supported President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to close the chapter on the controversial “dollar gift” incident involving Sammy Gyamfi.
The president’s move not to sanction Gyamfi, who currently serves as acting CEO of the Ghana Gold Board, has sparked debate across the political and civil landscape. A viral video recently surfaced showing Gyamfi handing over an undisclosed sum of U.S. dollars to evangelist Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, popularly known as Nana Agradaa.
Dr. Tanko Computer, speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Thursday, defended both the president’s decision and Gyamfi’s actions, stating that the gesture was rooted in personal generosity rather than misconduct.
“Sammy Gyamfi’s action was just out of generosity. The woman was pestering him, and Sammy is just a cheerful giver—that is how the young man is,” he remarked.
He added that Gyamfi’s background might explain his inclination to assist others, noting that individuals from humble beginnings often show empathy when confronted with suffering.
The incident drew criticism from civil society groups and opposition parties, with calls for Gyamfi’s dismissal over possible breaches of the Foreign Exchange Act and public service ethical standards. Despite this, President Mahama announced on Wednesday, May 14, that the matter would not be pursued further, confirming that Gyamfi had apologised.
While the decision has divided public opinion, seen by some as pragmatic and by others as undermining accountability, Dr. Tanko Computer maintained that it was a necessary step to prevent unnecessary political distractions.
“Let us thank the presidency for bringing sanity into this matter. The matter is dead and gone, so let us all allow it to die,” he concluded.
The presidency has not indicated any plans to revisit the issue, signaling a final resolution unless further developments arise.
