The Secretary-General of the Ghana Federation of Labour, Abraham Koomson, has defended GoldBod Chief Executive Officer Sammy Gyamfi against criticisms over the management of Ghana’s gold sector, insisting that allegations of financial losses must be backed by credible evidence and a proper forensic audit.
Speaking during a panel discussion on the Yepe Ahunu Political Talk Show on Ahotor FM, Mr. Koomson questioned claims of a GH¢1.7 billion loss, saying Ghanaians deserve a clear explanation of how the figure was arrived at and what it actually represents.
He argued that relying solely on an international report is not sufficient to establish financial wrongdoing, stressing the need for a comprehensive audit to determine whether the alleged amount represents an actual financial loss, mismanagement, an accounting issue or a valuation difference.
Mr. Koomson said the relevant state institutions should conduct a proper forensic audit before conclusions are drawn about the operations of GoldBod or the conduct of its Chief Executive Officer.
He maintained that if wrongdoing is established through credible evidence, those responsible must be held accountable. However, he cautioned against condemning individuals based on allegations that have not been independently verified.
Mr. Koomson also questioned the political dimension of the criticism against Sammy Gyamfi, suggesting that the controversy could be aimed at creating public distrust in the NDC government’s management of Ghana’s gold sector and affecting its political fortunes.
According to him, the opposition has a legitimate role in scrutinising government programmes and institutions, but such scrutiny must be based on facts, evidence and verifiable information rather than political accusations.
He further raised concerns about Ghana’s debt situation, arguing that the financial obligations inherited by successive governments continue to put pressure on the national budget and limit the resources available for development.
Mr. Koomson called for stronger national institutions, particularly in auditing, accountability and economic management, saying Ghana must strengthen its own systems and reduce excessive dependence on external institutions and loans.
On political party organisation, he urged both the NDC and NPP to strengthen their structures and focus on developing and implementing policies that address the needs of Ghanaians. He said political slogans alone cannot sustain a political party in power without effective policies and good governance.
Mr. Koomson maintained that the controversy surrounding GoldBod and Ghana’s gold sector should be resolved through transparency, accountability and credible evidence, stressing that anyone found culpable after a proper investigation should be held responsible.
Story by Stephen Kwaku Owusu Mintah