BoG must come again on Cedi bouquets; people can use their money as gifts once they don’t deface it – Ayariga

Dr Hassan Ayariga, leader of the All People's Congress (APC), has called on the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to clarify the legal basis for arresting individuals who use genuine Ghana cedi notes to create gift arrangements such as bouquets, cakes, and other decorative items. This follows the arrest of seven people who used cedi notes in money bouquets and cakes for various celebrations.

Ayariga emphasized that the BoG must differentiate between intentionally damaging or destroying currency and using genuine banknotes as gifts. He stated that Ghanaians have the right to give their legitimately earned money as gifts during weddings, birthdays, graduations, and other occasions. Ayariga argued that if the banknotes are not torn, defaced, destroyed, or permanently altered, the BoG should identify the specific law that has been breached before taking any enforcement action.

While acknowledging the importance of preserving the integrity of the cedi, he stressed that enforcement must be carried out within the law and must respect the constitutional rights of citizens. Ayariga urged the BoG to publicly clarify its legal position and provide clear guidance on distinguishing between acceptable gift packaging and actions that constitute unlawful treatment of the currency.