Veteran comedian and social commentator Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM) has added his voice to the conversation surrounding Sammy Gyamfi, CEO of Ghana Gold Board, after a video of him gifting money to evangelist Patricia Asiedu (Agradaa) stirred public concern.
In a recent post on his YouTube channel, KSM broke down why the backlash is less about the money and more about what leaders should never overlook: optics. Here are 6 powerful lessons from KSM’s take:
1. The act may not be wrong, but the optics are
KSM admitted the gesture itself might not have been illegal or morally wrong, but emphasized that how it looks in the public eye matters just as much. “The optics are not good,” he said, adding that public perception can either build or destroy trust in leadership.
2. Context is everything in leadership
Using a hospital example, KSM said: “If Sammy Gyamfi had given money to a struggling old man at Korle Bu, no one would complain.”
But giving cash to Agradaa, who has been openly critical of the NDC, raises eyebrows. Your audience and the context of your generosity matter.
3. Avoid casual interactions with controversial figures
Leaders must protect their image by setting boundaries. According to KSM, hanging out informally with polarizing personalities like Agradaa can erode public confidence. “Forget about the fact that it was Agradaa—it’s still not good optics,” he warned.
4. Always maintain structure and professionalism
Even when being approachable, KSM advises that leaders should channel interactions through official means.
“Be a people person, yes. But at the very least, tell the person to speak to your PA or visit the office. That shows responsibility.”
5. Intelligence isn’t enough—understand the weight of leadership
KSM praised Sammy Gyamfi’s intellect but stressed that being smart doesn’t automatically make you a good leader. Leadership, he says, requires discipline, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence.
6. Leadership requires class, not arrogance
“It’s not arrogance—it’s just the level you are,” KSM said, urging Sammy and other young appointees to embrace the dignity and restraint that comes with leadership roles. “Levels must be maintained.”
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