Ayariga challenges BoG to cite law behind arrests over cedi money bouquets

Founder and Leader of the All People’s Congress (APC), Dr Hassan Ayariga, has called on the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to identify the specific legal provisions underpinning the arrest of individuals who use genuine Ghana cedi notes to create money bouquets, cakes and other decorative arrangements.

His comments follow the arrest of seven individuals over the use of cedi notes in money bouquets and cakes prepared for weddings, birthdays, graduations and other celebrations.

Dr Ayariga questioned whether the use of legitimate banknotes as gifts automatically amounts to unlawful treatment of the currency, arguing that a distinction must be made between deliberate mutilation or destruction of the cedi and its use in gift arrangements.

“Ghanaians have the right to give their legitimately earned money as gifts during weddings, birthdays, graduations and other celebrations,” he said.

He maintained that where banknotes have not been torn, defaced, destroyed or permanently altered, the BoG must clearly establish the specific law that has been breached before taking enforcement action.

“If currency notes are not torn, defaced, destroyed or permanently altered, the Bank of Ghana must explain precisely which provision of the law has been violated,” Dr Ayariga said.

Although he acknowledged the need to safeguard the integrity of the national currency, Dr Ayariga said the BoG’s enforcement activities must be grounded in law and respect the rights of citizens.

“The Bank of Ghana is a regulatory institution, not a law unto itself. Any arrest must have a clear legal foundation, follow due process and respect the constitutional rights of citizens,” he said.

He has therefore urged the central bank to publicly clarify the legal position and provide clear guidance on what constitutes acceptable presentation of cedi notes as gifts and what amounts to unlawful treatment of the currency.