NDC Exposes $12 Million Agyapa Scandal: Calls for Accountability Amidst Shocking Revelations

In a moment of truth that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), addressed a press conference on Monday, 19th February 2024. The conference centered on the latest revelations regarding a staggering $12 million expenditure on the botched “Agyapa” deal.

Gyamfi began by expressing gratitude to the media for their prompt attendance and proceeded to highlight the disturbing issues emerging from the ongoing Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearings on the Auditor-General’s report. The focus of the conference, however, was the colossal expenditure disclosed by the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), Edward Nana Yaw Koranteng, related to the ill-fated “Agyapa” Royalties deal.

According to Gyamfi, Koranteng revealed during the PAC hearings that an astounding $12 million was spent on the failed deal. The breakdown included expenses for setting up the “Agyapa” Royalties vehicle, consultancy fees, office space rental, and processes leading to the Initial Public Offering for listing on the London Stock Exchange.

The NDC representative expressed no surprise at the disclosure, emphasizing their prior stance against the “Agyapa” deal as a phoney scheme devised by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government. Gyamfi condemned the government for spending such a significant amount on a deal that never materialized, branding it as “naked thievery” and an abuse of the public purse.

Drawing attention to the Office of Special Prosecutor’s Corruption Risk Assessment Report, Gyamfi detailed statutory breaches and potential money laundering associated with the deal. He further accused the government of making illegal payments to entities, including Databank and Africa Legal Associates, both linked to individuals close to President Akufo-Addo.

Gyamfi lamented the missed opportunities for utilizing the $12 million in addressing critical issues in Ghana, such as healthcare, education, and job creation. He accused the ruling government of distributing funds among themselves under the pretext of the “Agyapa” deal, leaving the nation in economic distress.

The NDC vowed to hold the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government accountable, with Gyamfi disclosing that the next NDC government, led by John Dramani Mahama, would investigate the Agyapa scandal, retrieve illegal payments, and ensure perpetrators face prosecution.

In a passionate appeal to the Ghanaian electorate, Gyamfi urged them to reject corruption, nepotism, and economic mismanagement in the upcoming 2024 general elections. He concluded by expressing confidence that Ghanaians would rise against the alleged corruption, demanding an end to the hardships inflicted by the current administration.

As the nation eagerly awaits the December 7, 2024 elections, the revelations from the NDC press conference have intensified the debate surrounding the “Agyapa” deal and heightened calls for accountability. The political landscape is now charged with anticipation, as citizens weigh the impact of these disclosures on the future governance of the country.