Chef Smith has finally come forward to apologize to Ghanaians for falsely claiming to have broken the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon.
In an emotional interview with Serwaa Amihere which is yet to be aired in full on GhOneTV, on Saturday, July 6, 2024, Chef Smith tearfully expressed his regret and sought forgiveness from the public.
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He stated that it was never his intention to deceive Ghanaians about his attempt and that himself and his team were lied to with an email.
Chef Smith in the snippet of the interview which is yet to be aired said: “I’m so sorry, I don’t deserve to live. I’m sorry and I beg the whole nation.”
Earlier in the day, his assistant chef, Leticia Martekie Sankah, also issued an apology for her role in the deceit.
In a Facebook post, Leticia explained that she had been unaware of the fraudulent nature of the attempt and believed she was merely supporting a friend in a legitimate effort.
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She wrote, “I intended to showcase my culinary skills and support someone I trusted. I now understand that my actions contributed to the situation. I take full responsibility for my part and assure you that I have learned from this experience. I regret any harm and disappointment caused to my loved ones and appreciate their support. If there’s anything specific I can do to make amends, please let me know.”
The controversy began on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, when Chef Smith held a press conference at La Palm Hotel in Accra, announcing himself as the new Guinness World Record holder for the longest cooking marathon by an individual.
He proudly declared, “I am deeply humbled and honoured to announce that I am now the new world record holder for the cook-a-thon.” A certificate displayed at the event claimed, “The longest cooking marathon (individual) is 802 hours 25 minutes and was achieved by Ebenezer Smith (Ghanaian) in Spintex, Accra, Ghana. From 1 February to 6 March, 2024.”
However, the public quickly grew suspicious of the claim, prompting an investigation. Emails sent to the Guinness World Records (GWR) revealed that Chef Smith’s certificate was fake and that GWR did not recognize his attempt. In a response to Derek Edem Kojo, a journalist with GhOne TV, Madalyn Bielfield, PR Manager for Guinness World Records, confirmed that Alan Fisher of Ireland still holds the current record. She stated, “No, this is not true at all. He does not hold the GWR title and that is not our certificate.”
Watch the video of his apology below:
