NDC Exposes $12 Million Agyapa Scandal: Calls for Accountability and Electoral Action

In a momentous press conference held today at the National Democratic Congress (NDC) headquarters, Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer, addressed the media on the shocking revelation of a $12 million expenditure related to the botched “Agyapa” Royalties deal. The conference shed light on the alleged misuse of public funds, sparking renewed calls for accountability and a push against corruption within the government.

Gyamfi began by expressing gratitude to the media for their prompt attendance, emphasizing the significance of the revelations discussed. The NDC representative highlighted the ongoing proceedings of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament, which brought to light disturbing issues concerning corruption and misuse of public funds by certain state institutions.

A pivotal moment in the conference was the disclosure by Edward Nana Yaw Koranteng, CEO of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), that a staggering $12 million had been spent on the unsuccessful “Agyapa” Royalties deal. Gyamfi revealed that this colossal amount included expenditures on the establishment of the controversial “Agyapa” Royalties vehicle, consultancy fees, office space rental, and processes leading to the Initial Public Offering for listing on the London Stock Exchange.

The National Democratic Congress, through Gyamfi, reiterated its long-standing position that the “Agyapa” Royalties deal was a dubious scheme aimed at appropriating the country’s mineral royalties for the benefit of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) government. Gyamfi expressed disappointment and dismay at the government’s decision to spend such a substantial amount on a deal that ultimately did not materialize.

Gyamfi reminded the public of the NDC’s consistent opposition to the “Agyapa” deal during public debates, emphasizing the undervaluation of mineral royalties and the potential negative impact on the country’s revenue. He criticized the NPP government for pushing through the deal despite widespread public outcry.

The National Communications Officer highlighted the findings of the Office of Special Prosecutor (OSP), which identified various legal violations in the “Agyapa” deal, including procurement rigging, statutory breaches, and potential money laundering. Gyamfi expressed concern over illegal payments made to entities such as Databank and Africa Legal Associates, companies associated with close relatives of President Akufo-Addo.

Gyamfi, on behalf of the NDC and Ghanaians, condemned the alleged misuse of the $12 million, stating it could have addressed critical issues such as healthcare, education, and job creation. He accused the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government of distributing the funds among themselves under the guise of “Agyapa” deal expenditures.

In a passionate plea, Gyamfi questioned the morality and leadership of the current government, accusing them of subjecting Ghanaians to constant abuse of state resources. He expressed the NDC’s commitment to investigate and retrieve the funds lost in the “Agyapa” scandal when, by the grace of God, they assume office in 2025.

Gyamfi concluded by urging the Ghanaian electorate to reject corruption, nepotism, and economic mismanagement in the upcoming elections. He called for a collective stand against the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration, emphasizing that “enough is enough.”

The press conference ended with a resounding pledge from Gyamfi on behalf of the NDC to pursue accountability and justice, promising that no one found culpable in the “Agyapa” scandal would escape prosecution under a future NDC/Mahama government.