Job 14:1-2 – “Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble. He cometh forth like a flower, and is cut down: he fleeth also as a shadow, and continueth not.”
Dr. Samuel Sarpong, affectionately known as Sammy Tugar and Castro, was born on 7th November 1957 at Adadientem to Mr. Kwabena Mensah Sarpong (of blessed memory) and Mrs. Agnes Boakye Sarpong.
From humble beginnings, he rose to become a distinguished public servant, politician, and community leader whose life was marked by service, courage, and resilience.
His early education took him through Adadientem, Besease R/C, Sefwi Wiawso, and finally Esease Middle School, where he completed his basic schooling.
He proceeded to Osei Tutu Secondary School, then to Wesley College, where he trained as a teacher. He was a cross-country runner and a high jumper.
Upon completion, he taught at Juaben Secondary School from 1981 to 1982 as a physical education teacher (P.E) and Asante Twi.
Dr. Sarpong’s leadership qualities quickly became evident, earning him the role of PDC Coordinator for the Ejisu/Juaben District. He coordinated the Programme of Action to Mitigate the Social Costs of Adjustment (PAMSCAD).
His pursuit of higher learning and specialised knowledge led him abroad—first to Cuba, where he studied criminology, and later to Bulgaria for further studies.
His professional career was diverse and impactful.
He served with the Special Branch (now BNI), the Ashanti Regional Investigation Committee (ASHRIC), which later became the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) and subsequently the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).
He also served as Acting Director of SFO for the Northern Sector, covering Ashanti, Bono Ahafo, Northern, Upper East, and Upper West regions.
In politics, Dr. Sarpong held numerous leadership roles, including Mayor of Kumasi (2009), Ashanti Regional Minister (2013), Central Regional Minister, and Parliamentary Candidate for Nyiaeso (NDC) in 2016.
He also served as Director of the State Housing Corporation.
In addition, he later obtained an Executive Master’s Degree from GIMPA.
He is the Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
His commitment to party development was evident in his instrumental role in building the NDC Party Office at Nyiaeso.
He treated people equally, irrespective of their colour, creed or political affiliation.
He was a founding member of the NDC.
A respected traditional leader, Dr. Sarpong, was enstooled as Nkosohene of Cape Coast.
He was married to Mrs. Hannah Sarpong, and together they were blessed with five children: four boys and one girl.
On that fateful day, Dr. Sarpong’s life of service and dedication was cut short when he became one of the eight gallant individuals who perished in a tragic helicopter crash at Sikaman – Brofoyedu in the Ashanti Region.
Dr. Samuel Sarpong’s legacy is one of selfless leadership, unwavering patriotism, and a deep love for family, community, and country.
His contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.
Damirifa Due! Due ne Amanehunu
