Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has rendered an “unreserved apology” to Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) Chief Executive Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) following comments he made during a discussion on Citi TV.
In a statement dated August 20, 2026, Mr Vanderpuye said he had reflected on his comments and recognised that he failed to properly communicate his intended position on the matter.
“I wish to sincerely apologise for my comments during my presentation on Citi TV this morning,” he stated, adding that he took “full responsibility” for the impression created by his remarks.
According to the former minister, it was never his intention to undermine Mr Gyamfi or support attacks against him and GoldBod by members of the opposition.
“Let me state clearly and without ambiguity that it was never my intention to undermine or condemn our comrade, Sammy Gyamfi, or to lend support to the attacks being directed at him and the GoldBod by the opposition,” he said.
Mr Vanderpuye explained that his intention during the television discussion was actually to defend the work of GoldBod and the efforts of its Chief Executive Officer.
He, however, admitted that his response to what he described as “sustained propaganda and attacks” surrounding the issue was expressed in a manner that created a different impression.
“For that error of judgement and communication, I am sincerely sorry,” he said.
The former minister also offered a personal apology to Mr Gyamfi, describing him as a “dedicated member” of the NDC who had served the party with courage and commitment over the years.
He said Mr Gyamfi deserved the support of party members as he carried out what he described as “one of the most important national responsibilities entrusted to him.”
Mr Vanderpuye further clarified that while he may have had observations about the matter, they should never have been expressed in a manner that could be interpreted as validating attacks from the NDC’s political opponents.
He also apologised to the leadership, members and grassroots supporters of the NDC who may have been disappointed or hurt by his comments.
“At a time when our comrades and the institutions they lead are subjected to politically motivated attacks, members rightly expect those of us who have been entrusted with leadership and those aspiring to greater responsibility within the party to demonstrate solidarity, sound judgement and loyalty to our collective cause,” he stated.
Reaffirming his allegiance to the party, Mr Vanderpuye said he had spent a significant part of his political life standing and fighting for the NDC, including during extremely difficult personal and political circumstances.
“My commitment to this party and its people remains absolute,” he said.
He concluded by describing the NDC as his “political home” and stressed that his loyalty and commitment to the party remained unwavering.
