KSM Criticizes Government Over Alleged Portrait Error On New GH¢50 Note

According to reports from GhanaWeb, renowned Ghanaian satirist and political commentator Kwaku Sintim-Misa, popularly known as KSM, has criticised the portrait controversy surrounding Ghana’s newly unveiled GH¢50 banknote, intended to honour national flag creator Theodosia Salome Okoh.

Speaking on the KSM Show on November 13, 2026, KSM welcomed the decision to recognise prominent figures who contributed to Ghana’s history. However, he expressed disappointment over allegations that the portrait may not depict Okoh, describing the situation as a “sad shame.”

KSM questioned how a team responsible for redesigning the currency could overlook such an important detail. He also suggested that the notes might only be sample printouts, expressing hope that authorities would address any mistake before the new currency entered circulation.

The GH¢50 denomination forms part of the Bank of Ghana’s Heritage Series, unveiled on November 12, 2026, by President John Dramani Mahama and Bank of Ghana Governor Dr Johnson Asiama. The series celebrates Ghana’s history, national identity and notable personalities.

The dispute began after Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin questioned the identity of the woman depicted on the note. He alleged that the portrait showed Okoh’s younger sister, Dr Letitia Obeng, rather than the woman whose contribution to the national flag was being recognised. He also accused the government of rushing the redesign and sidelining the historic Big Six.

The claim gained further attention after Dr Eddie Obeng, son of Dr Letitia Obeng and nephew of Theodosia Okoh, raised similar concerns in a LinkedIn post. He said he had initially welcomed the honour given to his aunt but was surprised because the portrait appeared to resemble his late mother and many other Ghanaians.

However, the Bank of Ghana subsequently rejected the allegation. In an official statement issued on November 13, the central bank said the portrait was developed from authentic photographs of Theodosia Okoh, not her sister. It explained that artistic adjustments, including changes to her familiar head-tie, were made to meet banknote printing and security requirements. The Bank acknowledged that these changes contributed to the perceived resemblance.

The Heritage Series notes are scheduled to enter circulation on December 1, 2026.

https://mobile.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/KSM-blasts-gov-t-over-wrong-photograph-of-Theodosia-Okoh-on-new-GH-50-note-2061287

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