Beyond the Cash Gifts: Ghana’s Political Culture of Financial Influence

The Sammy Gyamfi Controversy and the Bigger Picture

Ghana’s political landscape has once again been rocked by controversy—this time surrounding Sammy Gyamfi’s cash gift to evangelist Nana Agradaa. The viral video sparked outrage, with critics questioning the appropriateness of a public official handing out bundles of dollars. While Gyamfi has since apologized, calling it a private act of kindness, the incident has reignited discussions about

money in politics—a conversation Ghana cannot afford to ignore.

This is not an isolated case. During the Ejisu by-election, an NPP MP and lecturer was caught on video offering an envelope to Electoral Commission officials, later claiming it was merely “for lunch”. The footage raised concerns about vote-buying, electoral integrity, and the unchecked influence of money in Ghanaian politics.

The Normalization of Cash Politics
From vote-buying to financial favors, Ghanaian politicians across party lines have long engaged in monetary influence tactics. Whether it’s handing out cash gifts, distributing goods, or funding campaign rallies with questionable sources, the practice has become deeply entrenched in the political system.

The real issue isn’t just who gave money to whom—it’s the fact that Ghanaian politics has become a game of financial transactions, where electoral success is often determined by spending power rather than policy strength.

Enough of the Noise—Time for Real Governance

Instead of political parties weaponizing scandals for short-term gains, Ghana needs a serious conversation about electoral integrity. Politicians should focus on policy solutions, economic development, and governance reforms rather than engaging in cash-driven theatrics.

The micro minority—the everyday Ghanaian who struggles under economic hardship—deserves peace, stability, and leadership that prioritizes national progress over political distractions.

The Hypocrisy of Ghana’s Cash Politics

The Cecilia Dapaah scandal exposed the staggering sums of money hidden in the homes of Ghana’s political elite—millions in dollars, euros, and cedis, some of which were allegedly stolen by her household staff. This revelation raises deeper questions: Why do politicians hoard such vast amounts of cash? And more importantly, why do they pretend to be outraged when others engage in similar financial transactions?

The NPP’s history of open money distribution during campaigns is well-documented. Videos and images show party officials handing out stacks of cash, reinforcing the reality that vote-buying and financial influence are deeply embedded in Ghana’s political culture. Yet, when Sammy Gyamfi’s cash gift surfaced, the same politicians who have openly engaged in monetary influence suddenly demanded his sacking or resignation.

This selective outrage is hypocritical and irresponsible. Ghana’s political class must stop the noise and focus on real governance. To the micro minority—please note that everyday Ghanaian—deserves peace, stability, and leadership that prioritizes national progress over political distractions.

As Chinua Achebe wisely said, “A man who calls his kinsmen to a feast does not do so to save them from starving. They all have food in their own homes. When we gather together in the moonlit village ground, it is not because of the moon. Every man brings his own firewood to the gathering.”

Likewise, Ghana’s politicians must bring substance to governance, not just cash gifts and empty rhetoric. As ABA Fuseini often reminds us, “The truth is like a calabash in water; no matter how much you try to push it down, it will always rise.”

And in the words of Proverbs 11:1, “Dishonest scales are an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is His delight.”

Ghana’s political future must be built on justice, integrity, and accountability—not cash-driven theatrics.

Retired Senior Citizen
Teshie-Nungua
[email protected]