Ex-Presidential Staffer Questions Retention of Key Appointees Under Mahama Administration

Samuel Bryan Buabeng, a former presidential staffer under the Akufo-Addo administration, has raised serious concerns about the continued tenure of two key appointees from the previous government. His remarks come in the wake of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) defeat in the 2024 elections, sparking debate over political appointments.

In a strongly worded Facebook post over the weekend, Mr. Buabeng singled out Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, Managing Director of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), and Martin Kwaku Ayisi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Minerals Commission. He questioned why these individuals remain in office, alleging that their retention serves questionable purposes under the Mahama-led National Democratic Congress (NDC) government.

Mr. Buabeng accused Ms. Opare of facilitating “late landings for top NDC officials,” allegedly enabling the transportation of “large sums of money, gold, and other contraband.” He further suggested that her alleged allegiance to the NDC prior to the 2024 elections might explain her continued role at GACL.

“Why is she still the Managing Director of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL)? Is it because she permitted late landings for top NDC officials, enabling the transportation of large sums of money, gold, and other contraband?” he wrote.

Turning his attention to the Minerals Commission, Mr. Buabeng criticized the continued tenure of Martin Kwaku Ayisi, alleging his involvement in a controversial financial scheme. He claimed that Ayisi’s role facilitates “state capture” through what he described as a “Ponzi GOLDBOD” scheme, likening it to the infamous Menzgold scandal.

“If the NDC can dismiss cleaners recruited by the NPP, why is Martin Kwaku Ayisi still the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Minerals Commission? Is he remaining in his position to facilitate STATE CAPTURE through the Ponzi GOLDBOD? This ‘Menzgold Pro Max’ rip-off will face the fiercest resistance. God save Ghana!” he posted.

Mr. Buabeng’s comments have drawn mixed reactions. While some have expressed support for his concerns, others view his allegations as politically motivated. His stance also aligns with growing dissatisfaction among some NDC members, who have criticized the Mahama administration for retaining appointees from the previous government despite promises of a political “reset.”

The Mahama administration, has yet to respond to the claims.