Former Member of Parliament for Odododiodoo, Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, has rendered an unreserved apology to Sammy Gyamfi and the leadership and members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) over comments he made on Citi TV.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Vanderpuye said he had listened to his own presentation and acknowledged that he “did not communicate my intended position in the manner I should have.”
“Never My Intention To Undermine Sammy Gyamfi”
The former Sports Minister stated categorically that it was never his intention to undermine or condemn Sammy Gyamfi, who is the Chief Executive Officer of the GoldBod, or to lend support to attacks being directed at him and the institution by 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. My record, my convictions and my commitment to the NDC would never permit me to knowingly strengthen the hands of our political opponents against one of our own,” he said.
Vanderpuye explained that his intention during the discussion was to defend the work of GoldBod and the efforts of Sammy Gyamfi, but in reacting to what he described as sustained propaganda, he expressed himself in a way that “created a completely different impression.”
“For that error of judgement and communication, I am sincerely sorry,” he stated.
Apology To Grassroots
He also apologized directly to Sammy Gyamfi, describing him as a “dedicated member of our party who has served the NDC with courage and commitment” and who deserves the support of all as he carries out one of the most important national responsibilities entrusted to him.
“I particularly apologise to Sammy Gyamfi… Whatever observations I may have had should never have been expressed in a manner capable of being interpreted as validating the attacks of our political opponents against him,” he noted.
He extended his apology to the leadership, members and particularly the grassroots of the NDC who were hurt or disappointed by his comments, acknowledging that at a time when party comrades are subjected to politically motivated attacks, members expect solidarity, sound judgement and loyalty.
Vanderpuye reaffirmed his long-standing commitment to the NDC, stating: “The NDC is my political home, and my loyalty and commitment to its cause remain unwavering.”
Nii Lante Vanderpuye
