Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics Mussa Dankwah, has reacted to the incident where the newly appointed Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, is seen allegedly spraying cash at his supporters during his welcome durbar in Bolgatanga.
The action of the Regional Minister has attracted criticism on social media.
In a post on his Facebook page, Mr Mussa Dankwah said that “Mahama has a first test case in his hands as newly appointed regional minister does what some people did and were hauled to the OSP.
“But there might be a cultural issue here, where in the Northern part and even among the Zongos, you throw money at drummers as appreciation. But you must do it in manner not to suggests sign of your future opulent life style. How differently will people see this from what some of the parliamentary candidates did and were reported to the OSP?”
Meanwhile, the Upper East Regional Communication Bureau of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) said media reports on the matter misrepresented events at the welcome durbar held in Pwalugu on Sunday, 2nd February 2025, to usher into the region, the newly sworn-in Upper East Regional
Minister, Hon. Donatus Akamugri Atanga,
They explained that in a statement the Durbar was a culturally significant and unifying event that brought together people from diverse political backgrounds, ethnic groups, and communities to welcome Hon. Akamugri in a grand procession from Pwalugu to Bolgatanga township.
The celebration was marked by traditional drumming, singing, and dancing, reflecting the rich local customs and heritage.
However, certain media reports have inaccurately portrayed a cultural practice as an act of extravagance by the Minister. To set the record straight, here are the facts:
1. In the Upper East Region, it is customary for attendees to offer money to traditional performers as a token of appreciation. These performers are not pre- paid but rely on such contributions.
2. The money given to the performers was not Hon. Akamugri’s personal funds; it was handed to him by the NDC Regional Vice Chairman, Mr. Issaka Haruna. The amount consisted of GHS 5 notes, totaling GHS 100.
3. Due to the harmattan winds, the notes briefly scattered, creating an unintended
visual impression that has been misrepresented as deliberate “cash spraying.” 4. Only Ghanaian cedi notes amounting to GHS 100 were involved–no foreign
currency was used.
5. The misinterpretation of this cultural gesture is unfortunate, and we urge the media to verify facts before disseminating misleading narratives.
6. We regret any unintended concern this misrepresentation may have caused and reaffirm Hon. Akamugri’s commitment to responsible leadership and prudent governance.
7. Hon. Akamugri is widely recognized for his humility and modesty. Any suggestion of opulence or extravagant display is inconsistent with his character and values.
