Former Sports Minister Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye has issued an unqualified apology to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the party’s National Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, over comments he made concerning the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) during a television discussion.
In a statement dated August 20, 2026, Mr. Vanderpuye said he had taken time to reflect on his remarks on Channel One TV and realised that he had failed to properly convey the position he intended to communicate.
He said he took full responsibility for the comments and stressed that he never intended to undermine Mr. Gyamfi or endorse criticisms directed at him and GoldBod by opposition figures.
“I wish to sincerely apologise for my comments during my presentation on Channel One TV this morning.
Having had the opportunity to listen carefully to myself and reflect on the discussion, I acknowledge that I did not communicate my intended position in the manner I should have. I take full responsibility for that,” he said.
Mr. Vanderpuye maintained that his political convictions, record and commitment to the NDC would not permit him to knowingly make statements that could strengthen the position of political opponents against a fellow member of the party.
He explained that his objective during the television discussion was, in fact, to defend the work of GoldBod and the efforts of Mr. Gyamfi.
However, he acknowledged that his response to what he described as sustained propaganda and attacks surrounding the issue created an impression contrary to his intended position.
The former National Coordinator of the District Road Improvement Programme described his remarks as an error of judgment and communication and expressed regret over the misunderstanding they had generated.
Mr. Vanderpuye offered a specific apology to Mr. Gyamfi, whom he described as a dedicated NDC member who had served the party with courage and commitment over the years.
He reiterated his commitment to the NDC and expressed hope that his apology would help clarify his position and bring an end to the controversy surrounding his comments.
