Mussa Dankwah, Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics, has weighed in on the controversy surrounding the newly appointed Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, who was seen allegedly spraying cash at supporters during his welcome durbar in Bolgatanga. The incident has sparked widespread criticism on social media.

In a Facebook post, Dankwah raised concerns about the implications of the action, suggesting that former President John Mahama now faces a “first test case” with this situation, as similar actions by others had led to investigations by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). He noted, however, that cultural differences may play a role, particularly in the northern regions and among the Zongo communities, where throwing money at drummers is a traditional form of appreciation. Despite this, Dankwah questioned whether the display could be perceived as a sign of future opulence and how it would be viewed compared to similar actions by parliamentary candidates that had led to reports to the OSP.

The incident has prompted a response from the Upper East Regional Communication Bureau of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), which issued a statement defending the event. According to the NDC, the durbar, held on February 2, 2025, was a culturally significant and unifying occasion, celebrating the swearing-in of Atanga. The statement emphasized that the event was a gathering of diverse political, ethnic, and community groups, marked by traditional drumming, singing, and dancing.

The NDC also clarified the circumstances surrounding the cash incident. They explained that in the Upper East Region, it is customary for attendees to offer money to traditional performers as a token of appreciation. The money involved in the incident was not Atanga’s personal funds but had been provided by the NDC Regional Vice Chairman, Issaka Haruna. The total amount was GHS 100, and the notes were GHS 5 bills. Due to the strong harmattan winds, the notes briefly scattered, leading to the visual misrepresentation of a “cash spraying” act.

The NDC further urged the media to verify facts before sharing misleading narratives and expressed regret for any confusion caused. The party reiterated that Atanga is known for his humility and modesty, and any suggestion of extravagance is out of line with his character and values.

Source:TheDotNews